National Condom Month

Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) reminds everyone, that having safe sex means using a condom. Other forms of birth control may prevent pregnancies; however, they do not prevent the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). According to a recent survey, almost 40% of US high school students said that they did not use a condom during their last sexual encounter. 

If you are sexually active and have not been using a condom, you are at risk. Get tested at one of our clinic locations in Lakewood or Arvada. Call 303-232-6301 for an appointment. And, when sexually active, make sure you or your partner uses a condom!

Celebrating 10 Years!

Last month, the Colorado Quit Line celebrated its 10th anniversary. Since it began in 2002, the Quit Line has helped more than 75,000 people quit using tobacco. This free service connects people who want to quit with a Quit Coach who can help them through the process. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 658,000 individuals in Colorado are current cigarette smokers. If you are one of them who would like to quit, please call the Colorado Quit Line at 800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit them online at coquitline.org.

Poll: Few Americans know all the risks of overweight/obesity

A recent article in the Denver Post highlights results of a survey completed by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research showing that most people still don’t understand the enormity of health risks associated with overweight/obesity. The poll asked over one thousand adults, nationwide, to list the consequences of obesity. While many listed heart disease and diabetes as consequences, most did not realize there are many other health concerns resulting from overweight/obesity, including: cancers, infertility, joint issues, sleep apnea and respiratory problems.

View our health connections model video to learn more about how risk factors such as unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and lack of access to care can lead to health conditions such as overweight/obesity, diabetes and hypertension and how ultimately the health conditions contribute to the leading causes of death in Jefferson County such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. To be a part of the JCPH Community Health Assessment or to find out more about how certain health concerns and risk factors can lead to causes of death, please visit our website at www.healthypeoplehealthyplaces.com. 

In the meantime, make sure to stay healthy! Getting outdoors- even during the winter months- and taking advantage of what Jefferson County has to offer is a great way to increase your physical activity! Jeffco Outdoors has some fantastic ideas and resources to help get your family physically active. After all, health and parks go hand in hand.