REDUCING SUGAR TO FIGHT HEART DISEASE

Kern County Public Health wants you to swap out your Valentine’s Day candy for something healthier to fight heart disease.

Assistant Director Brynn Carrigan says 75% of people here are either overweight or obese, which is the highest rate in the state, and leads to other problems like stroke and diabetes. Carrigan says heart issues cost Kern County patients $600 million in hospital visits last year and led to 1,500 deaths.

This is the first campaign Public Health is launching this year encouraging residents to reduce sugar and embrace more active lifestyles.

Kelli Pierce