Choctaw Nation Health Care Center - Going Lean

What is it?

Going Lean’s main focus is on preventing obesity and promoting healthy lifestyles. The program includes weight-loss initiatives, exercise classes, community gardens, healthy lifestyle coaching, running/walking groups, a cycling team, cooking classes and nutrition education.

Who is it for?

The entire Choctaw Nation coverage area consisting of 10½ counties in Southeast Oklahoma, with a special emphasis on youth.

Why do they do it?

A 2010 report showed a growing frequency of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and other diseases linked to poor nutrition and obesity among Indian peoples, which are occurring in increasingly younger tribal members.

Impact

Among its many successes, Going Lean has more than 3,000 active members in the PACE (Promoting Active Communities Everywhere) program; to remain active, the member must participate in an event (5K, 10K, 15K or half-marathon) every six months. Going Lean also hosts a three-day/two-night fitness and cultural camp for youth ages 9 to 11 that involves more than 100 youth annually.

Contact: Tammie Cannady
Director, Preventative Health
Telephone: 918-567-7121
Email: tkcannady@cnhsa.com