Chronic Disease continues to be prevalent within our county and is causing more premature deaths than overdose and motor vehicle accidents combined. In 2015-2019, Clay County had 163 total deaths pertaining to heart disease, 54 deaths involving Cerebrovascular Disease and 23 deaths pertaining to diabetes. Prevention is imperative because studies have shown that effective prevention can stop or delay many chronic diseases and limit their negative impact. All health is connected, meaning that one chronic disease can contribute to other diseases down the road. Therefore, the best action plan for chronic diseases is to manage the condition at hand and keep it as stable as one can. By remaining stable, other chronic diseases are delayed from occurring.  Our goal is to limit the burden that chronic disease has on not only the individual, but the community as a whole.

Clay County would experience more individuals having controlled blood pressure and blood glucose levels due to increased monitoring. Physical activity will increase within the community, by the utilization of walking trails and the recreational gym. More community members will buy from local food stands and learn to choose healthier options. The Clay County Health Department will see an increase of clients attending health promotion classes and participation in a wellness program initiative. Clay County will see more clients taking control of their health by becoming more health conscious and monitoring their current disease. Overall, Clay County will observe positive lifestyle changes among the residents of this county and be an inspiration to surrounding counties.