Politics & Government

Health Report: Two-Thirds of Pinellas Adults Overweight

The report also stated 16 percent of Pinellas adults could not afford to see a doctor in 2010.

According to a report released by the Pinellas County Health Department today, April 5, Pinellas County is struggling with obesity and still struggling with prescription pill abuse. 

Nearly two-thirds of adult in Pinellas are overweight or obese, the report said. 

In 2010, 153 Pinellas babies were born addicted to prescription or illegal drugs. In 2005, that number was 22, the report said.

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"Community engagement was essential to provide a comprehensive view of health and quality of life in Pinellas," said Claude M. Dharamraj, MD, Director of the Pinellas County Health Department in a news release. "We found that we exceeded expectations in some areas and need work in others."

County Health by the Numbers

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  • In 2011, cancer surpassed heart disease as the leading cause of death in Pinellas County. 
  • 16 percent of Pinellas adults could not afford to see a doctor in 2010.
  • 37 percent of Pinellas high school students did not get enough vigorous physical activity.
  • Rates of chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea are all higher in Pinellas County than the Florida average.

For more survey results and to read the complete 94-page study, click here

More than 800 residents participated in the county survey.

The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County has assembled a Community Health Action Team that's developing strategies for a 2013-2017 Community Health Improvement Plan that should be completed by July 1, a news release said.

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