HealthLinks Charleston March/April 2023

www. Char l es tonPhys i c i ans . com | www.Hea l thL i nksChar l es ton . com | 17 • Seek accurate information - “South Carolinians face misinformation every day that can jeopardize their health and well-being. Our state is not alone,” Dr. Traxler explained. “We have well-informed members of society in trusted roles – faith-based leaders, barbers, hairdressers and coaches who need to step in.” “Accurate information is more powerful when it comes from your preacher or your barber more than me because there is a level of trust,” she added. “A person might not listen to the first person who offers accurate information or advice, but, after multiple people they trust tell them in a nonconfrontational way, they will probably hear it and heed it.” It has taken centuries and many factors for South Carolina’s health, well-being and environmental concerns to rise to where they are today, Dr. Traxler confirmed. “There is not an overnight fix,” she added. “But we will continue to meet the challenges and discover solutions, and with each stride we will be intentional. It is not good enough to improve overall if disparity increases, too.” Resources: scdhec.gov/about-dhec/agency-plans-reports/bridge-strategic-plan-2022-2024 scdhec.gov/sites/default/files/Library/CR-003160_Short.pdf livehealthy.sc.gov/ Five Most Important Community Health Concerns Overweight/Obesity Diabetes High Blood Pressure Drug Use Cancer Five Most Important Factors for a Healthy Community Access to Affordable Health Care Good Jobs/Healthy Economy Access to Healthy and Affordable Foods Acceptance of All People Strong Faith and Fellowship 52.8% 47.1% 33.3% 30.5% 30.3% 55.5% 43.3% 42.2% 26.5% 20.3% ASSESSMENT RESULTS

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