United Way Works For a Healthier South Texas
Good health allows children to be better students and adults to be stable, productive members of society. Access to health care, reducing risky behaviors and decreasing obesity in children and adults are fundamental to improving the overall health of our community.
Our Goal
Since 2008, we’ve been working to achieve our bold, 10-year goal: to increase by one-third the number of youth and adults who are healthy and avoid risky behaviors by 2018.
Our Strategy
According to the County Health Rankings Report, 27% of the Cameron County population is obese and has a Body Mass indicator at or greater than 30%. 21,000 people have diabetes and over $182 million is spent annually on diabetic care in our county. Obesity increases the risk for numerous health conditions including coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, hypertension, dyslipidemia, stoke, liver and gallbladder disease, respiratory problems and osteoarthritis. Without insurance, access for all health conditions can be costly. Untreated health care issues often result in prolonged illness and increased medical expenses.
United Way committed to advocating for access to health care for everyone, supporting programs that reduce risky behaviors of children and adults and to ensuring our community has numerous opportunities for improved health and fitness.
How you can help
Organize a walking group, support others working toward a weight loss goal and advocate for access to healthcare.