Measure the successful implementation of the Northwest Regional Plan, which contains six guiding principles for the future of the region: Coordinate and leverage state, local and federal policies and investments; Provide more transportation choices; Promote equitable, affordable housing; Enhance economic competitiveness; Support existing communities; Value communities and neighborhoods.
Promote active, healthy living and a high quality of life among individuals and communities; encourage physical activity and access to healthy foods
Percent of Adults who Do Not Get Recommended Physical Activity-Northwest Region
Current Value
39.0%
Definition
Story Behind the Curve
In many communities, schools and recreation areas can be challenging to access via walking or biking, or they are located on major truck routes or in communities where there are limited or no sidewalks or paths. Lack of physical activity has been linked to a number of health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes (US CDC 2022).
Partners
Vermont Department of Health
Municipalities & Planning Commissions
Vermont Agency of Transportation
Rise VT
Local schools
Northwestern Medical Center
Why Is This Important?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular aerobic activity in adulthood improves strength and endurance, reduces risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, helps control weight, reduces anxiety and stress, increases self-esteem, and may improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A sedentary lifestyle is recognized as a major risk factor for obesity and cardiovascular disease. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults is a major public health concern, and weight-related chronic diseases are becoming increasingly common in adults.1
What Works
Region-specific prevention practices can also be found in "Planning for Prevention-A Guide to Community Health Initiatives" through Northwest Regional Planning Commission.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also outlines a number of ways adults can increase their levels of physical activity: individuals can make a commitment to be more active alone, with friends, family members, co-workers; employers can offer opportunities for employees to be more active during the work day; state and local governments may create walk and bike friendly communities; the federal government can implement polices to make physical activity accessible for everyone.1
References
1. Vermont Department of Health