The Expansion Of Long Island: How It May Be Affecting Your Health

It’s obvious to many of us that Long Island is “expanding’. And, according to researchers in more ways than one. In fact, studies suggest that more than half of those living in Nassau can be considered significantly overweight. And, they don’t get enough exercise either.

The recent research was conducted to help county health officials pinpoint health care concerns. And, believe it or not, the finding regarding the overall health of Nassau’s inhabitants was good compared to others in the state (of New York) and Americans in general.

On the other hand, the report reveals ample concern for Latin inhabitants and low-income residents, who, professionals say, are less likely to be insured and thus receive less preventative health care.

The study was compiled by the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and surveyed 4,600 individuals via phone about their health and lifestyle.

The results were a mixed bag for Nassau, especially when it came to eating habits. Though nearly 20 percent of Nassau residents are considered obese, a number slightly better than New Yorkers (22.2 percent) and better than Americans in general (24.4 percent), more Long Islanders (nearly 40 percent) are overweight as compared to our New York neighbors to the west (37.6 percent) and compared to the average American (37.7 percent)

Those considered obese have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 plus while those considered overweight have a BMI of between 25 and 29.9, according to CDC standards.

And, experts suggest that the problem may be that Nassau residents don’t get our (of the house enough) According to the reports, only 45 percent claimed engaging in “moderate” exercise of some form five or more days a week as compared to the state average of 48.1 percent and the national average of 49.1 percent.

Still, the professionals point out that this “cloud” has a silver lining, s Nassau residents fare much better with regard to smoking habits, and getting regular health screenings.

However, the report does call for some essential lifestyle changes. It calls for more mass transit use, using environmentally friendly products, trips to county parts and implanting some form of yoga.

County Executive Tom Suozzi has also called for a ban on trans fats from most meals at most restaurants, revealing calorie content on menus, increasing cigarette taxes and designating no-smoking areas at county parks.