Governor Perdue Announces 'Live Healthy Georgia' Initiative

Georgians encouraged to Be Active, Get Checked, Be Smoke-Free, Eat Healthy and Be Positive

ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue and members of Georgia’s public health community announced today the ‘Live Healthy Georgia’ initiative to raise awareness about chronic disease prevention in Georgia.  Governor Perdue also signed an executive order creating an advisory committee to form a public/private partnership for the purpose improving the health outcomes for Georgia’s citizens through activities that promote healthy eating, physical activity, smoking cessation, health screening and mental wellness

“The Live Healthy Georgia campaign will encourage Georgians to lead healthier lives,” said Governor Sonny Perdue.  “We want to set an example for the rest of the nation on how healthier living can dramatically improve the quality of life for Georgia citizens.”

According to the Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR), in 2003, chronic diseases including obesity, cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes claimed the lives of nearly 38,000 Georgians, accounting for approximately 56% of total deaths.  Studies have shown that some chronic diseases are preventable.  Making healthy lifestyle choices, such as getting regular physical activity, having recommended health screenings, quitting tobacco use and eating a nutritious diet can reduce the risk of developing some cancers, diabetes and heart disease.

Opinion research collected during the development of the Live Healthy Georgia campaign indicated that Georgians believe maintaining a positive attitude impacts health.  As a result, the campaign focuses on five key messages: Be Active, Get Checked, Be Smoke-Free, Eat Healthy and Be Positive.>

The Live Healthy Georgia initiative is sponsored by members of the state’s public health community, including DHR Commissioner B.J. Walker, Dr. Stuart Brown, acting director of DHR’s Division of Public Health and Bill Todd, president and CEO of the Georgia Cancer Coalition.