Scripps Launches Healthy Living Program to Prevent Chronic Disease

Scripps Health has launched an interactive education program to help the San Diego community tackle the 3-4-50: three behaviors (smoking, diet, physical activity) that contribute to four chronic diseases (cancer, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease) that cause 50 percent of all deaths in San Diego and throughout the U.S. The program is free to the public and funded through grants and philanthropy.

The California Department of Public Health estimates that 14 million Californians are living with at least one chronic condition, and more than half have multiple chronic diseases. While a family history of disease may increase the risk of chronic disease, healthy lifestyle choices can be instrumental in preventing them.

“For years Scripps Health has been a provider of medical care for people struggling with diabetes, cancer, heart and lung disease,” said Athena Philis-Tsimikas, MD, endocrinologist and vice president of the Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute. “With the launch of the Healthy Living Program our goal is to provide the members of our community with the means to prevent these chronic diseases.”

Healthy Living is a series of three educational sessions to teach practical ways to improve health habits. The program covers the basics of healthy eating and how to make sensible food choices when dining out; the risks of tobacco use, including electronic cigarettes; and the benefits of physical activity. The course will also examine ways that stress can interfere with a healthy lifestyle and provide stress management techniques.

Program participants will learn to make lasting, meaningful changes by taking the SMART (Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Relevant, Timebound) approach to reaching your goals. Using small, practical steps, participants set a SMART goal at each session and report on their successes and challenges at the following session.

Healthy Living sessions are offered throughout the community for free in English and Spanish. Morning, afternoon, evening and Saturday classes are available. Learn more about Healthy Living and find a class near you, or call 1-800-SCRIPPS (1-800-727-4777).