Jul 2, 2008 12:22 pm US/Pacific
SJ Valley Counties Score Low In Health Study
FRESNO (AP) ―
A new statewide report says seven of California's 10 unhealthiest counties are in the San Joaquin Valley.
The study released Tuesday says residents of Tulare, Kings, Merced, Fresno, San Joaquin, Madera and Kern counties breathe some of the dirtiest air, and live farthest from grocery stores and playgrounds.
The Having Our Say Coalition argues those conditions lead to higher rates of obesity, heart disease and high blood pressure.
The community groups are pressing for legislative reforms that would direct extra resources to the valley.
Counties scoring the worst had high poverty, and large minority populations with limited access to health insurance and a lack of green space.
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