High school graduation is an important predictor for overall health outcomes. High school graduates have less chance of being in prison, greater financial stability as adults, and fewer health problems. In the United States, public high school graduation rates are rising. According to a 2017 National Center for Education Statistics report, the number of students who entered 9th grade and graduated with a regular diploma after 4 years increased from 79% in 2010–2011 to 83% in 2014–2015.
For many Americans, meeting the daily physical activity recommendations can be a challenge. Between work, family and everyday responsibilities, it can be difficult to find the time to put personal health and wellness needs first. Local park and recreation agencies can offer a solution to that challenge. In fact, people who use parks and open spaces are three times more likely to achieve the recommended levels of physical activity than nonusers.
Today’s consumers recognize healthy eating as an important lifestyle behavior. In fact, 75 percent of consumers know it’s important to lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle and over three-fourths recognize that consuming healthy, nutritious foods are important factors in maintaining that lifestyle. At the American Heart Association (AHA) we are making healthy changes a priority in our workplace, where many adults spend much of their day. AHA’s path to 100% healthy has helped cultivate social norms and encourage employees’ healthy habits, while exceeding financial expectations.