Bookmark & Share

Favorites	Google
Digg	Del.icio.us
Twitter	Facebook

>> More...

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded $120 million for states to implement a prevention and wellness program, AHA News Now reports. Awarded as part of the Communities Putting Prevention to Work initiative, states will use the funding for three components, including statewide policy and environmental change; tobacco cessation through quit lines and media campaigns; and special initiatives to create health-promoting policies and environments. Specific dollar amounts will be awarded to states for the first two elements, while states must apply for special funds for the third aspect. States will have two years to complete the projects after receiving the funding. According to a release, "funded projects will emphasize state-level policy and environmental changes that will help communities and schools support healthy choices." Commenting on the awards, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius noted that "we know that many chronic diseases are preventable, and the resources now available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will assist states and territories in the implementation of proven prevention and wellness programs that will save lives and lower health care costs for all Americans." According to AHA News, the Communities Putting Prevention to Work initiative will make $650 million available for public health efforts that address obesity, increase physical activity, improve nutrition and decrease smoking (AHA News Now, 9/30/09; HHS release).