Steps to a HealthierPA-Fayette County and the Fayette County government have teamed up to create healthier communities in our area. The Steps program will be working with the county to improve the high rates of diabetes, asthma and obesity through programs aimed at nutrition, physical activity and tobacco use. The partnership was created to support multiple initiatives including the development of the Sheepskin Trail. 

People in Fayette County are at a high risk for diabetes, obesity and heart disease. Nearly 8% of people in Fayette County have already been diagnosed with diabetes and many more may not know they have the disease. More than 62% of the residents in Fayette County are also overweight or obese according to data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The 2003 County Health Needs Assessment showed those numbers to be even higher at 71% of the county’s residents being overweight or obese. This trend is alarming in the wake of rising health care costs and the associated health risks of being overweight like diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

The good news is that there is one simple and almost universally beneficial prescription for treating overweight conditions – the simple act of walking. Many studies have  demonstrated the numerous health benefits of walking. Walkers enjoy a 50% reduction in the risk of premature death; 50% less incidence of type-2 diabetes; 30-40% reduction in the risk of heart disease, and 20% reduction in the risk of stroke.

Steps to a HealthierPA-Fayette County is working with the county on this exciting initiative because it is clear that that trails can provide a place for people to get up, get out and get active. Trail walking, or hiking, is easy, free and one of the most self-rewarding activities a person can do. Trails are suitable for all ages, family-friendly, convenient, open during all daylight hours and easy to get to from almost anywhere.

Steps to a HealthierPA-Fayette County will be working with the county on the development of the enhancements to the trail to promote improved health and wellness throughout the entire county. “When the trail is complete, every resident in the county will be within 15 minutes of a trail that will provide them with a free physical fitness opportunity. This new partnership demonstrates how local initiative and cooperation can, with a little bit of creativity, generate numerous opportunities that can lead to improved health in Fayette County,” says Kelly Loomis, Project Coordinator for Steps to a HealthierPA-Fayette County.

The Fayette County Commissioners are “excited about this new joint venture with Steps to a HealthierPA-Fayette County regarding the Sheepskin Trail. The Trail will be a welcomed addition to our tourists’ attractions as well as give the community a new and healthy way of exercising. It will be a pleasure working with Kelly Loomis and the Department of Health regarding Steps to a Healthier Pennsylvania.”

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