Media Release

Contact: Kathy Cullinen, MS, RD 
401-222-3497
For: IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 6, 2002

RI Health Department Receives World Health Day 2002 Award
Obesity Control Program Cited for National Leadership

PROVIDENCE, RI – May 3, 2002 – The Rhode Island Department of Health, Obesity Control Program received the World Health Day 2002 Award from the American Association for World Health/World Health Organization. The award recognizes the program’s leadership in evaluating and implementing statewide nutrition and physical activity programs.

"The health consequences of overweight and obesity are serious, affecting both the quality and length of life," said Patricia A. Nolan, MD, MPH, Director, RI Department of Health. "In 2000, 17% of RI adults and 20% of US adults were obese, up from 10% (RI) and 13% (US) in 1991. We can’t afford to ignore this trend and still ensure a healthy population in the coming decades. The Rhode Island Obesity Control Program uses a proven public health approach, one that involves many community partners, to address overweight and obesity among children and adults."

The United States experienced unprecedented increases in overweight and obesity in the last decade—reaching epidemic proportions. In 1991 no state had an obesity rate of 20% or higher. By 2000, 22 states reported obesity rates of 20% or higher. These increases cut across all ages, racial and ethnic groups, and both genders. According to CDC, if this trend is not reversed obesity-related health problems and associated costs will soon surpass those associated with tobacco.

Kathy Cullinen, MS, RD, Program Manager of the Obesity Control Program, said, "The Rhode Island agenda focuses on school children and their families--with a special focus on Hispanic children. Our program centers on three key areas: data, planning and prevention. We took a partnership approach, involving many community-based organizations. It’s truly a team process; the award clearly recognizes the many efforts that make this program a success."

For more information about HEALTH’s Obesity Control Program contact Kathy Cullinen 401-222-3442 or visit the HEALTH website at http://www.health.ri.gov.