Over time, we have realized that there are three fields with commonality among all our Core Health Improvement Areas. We consider them to be foundational to our work. Attention to these – either risk factors or health factors - offer our greatest opportunity to impact the health in our community. We concentrate our resources and our capacity-building efforts on these three Pillars of Heath:
1. Tobacco-Free and Smoke–Free Living
Tobacco use / tobacco exposure is a risk factor in 40% of our eleven Core Health Improvement Areas (Prevention & Wellness, Cancer, Heart Health, and Substance Abuse). In 2007, The Partnership created the Smoke-Free Carroll County Coalition to gain support for legislative action regarding indoor tobacco use. Smoke-Free Carroll County strengthens the community relationships we need to champion tobacco-free lifestyles through initiatives such smoke-free zones in front of buildings with public access, and educating parents about the dangers of exposing their children to second-hand tobacco smoke.
2. Healthy Weight (Physical Activity and Nutrition)
Overweight is a risk factor for all ages, from pre-school to older adults. L.E.A.N. Carroll was launched in 2008 as a movement to increase two critical healthy lifestyle behaviors - appropriate levels of physical activity, and good nutrition. By focusing on healthy behaviors to maintain healthy weight, we maximize overall well-being and prevent serious illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Our commitment to the promotion of healthy weight is long-term, with potential health benefits for everyone in Carroll County.
3. Illness and Injury Prevention
Within all of The Partnership's Core Health Improvement Areas and our funded organizational structure, illness and injury prevention is where our greatest opportunity for improvement lies. We support initiatives that educate about the impact of lifestyle choices; challenge people of all ages to 100% compliance with appropriate health screenings and immunizations; promote “healthy activities" of mind, body, and spirit for youth and adults; and seek to eliminating health disparities to create a healthier Carroll community.
