PREFACE

As a Commonwealth and a Nation we find ourselves the envy of the entire world in areas of science and medical care. Sadly though, this has not made Kentucky or the United States the healthiest place to live. As a state and a nation we lag behind a dozen or so other countries in the health of our people. This poor showing has less to do with total resources than it does with our commitment and approach to spending more money for the creation of necessary conditions for a healthy population.

A very significant cause of our poor health is due to the inability to control preventable health problems. Preventable health problems fully account for one half of all deaths. These deaths are mostly caused by tobacco use, improper diet, alcohol misuse, motor vehicle crashes, illegal drug use, unsafe sexual behaviors, microbial and toxic agents, and firearm use. All of these causes of death are the result of human behaviors and choices we make as individuals.

Today, local health departments in Kentucky are committed to working to help create, change, and impact behaviors for a healthier Kentucky. Local health departments with a presence in each county of the Commonwealth are working to create community partnerships that will impact the necessary medical, environmental and behavioral interventions to accomplish our Vision and Mission. Using our Vision local health departments will translate ideas into action that will ensure for the collective well being of all Kentuckians.