Hauppauge – Recognizing that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” Suffolk County Executive Steven Levy and Commissioner of Health Services Dr. Humayun Chaudhry announced the creation of a new Division of Preventive Medicine, and rolled out several division initiatives to educate residents, students and county employees on healthier lifestyles.

Levy appointed Dr. Maureen Crowley of Westhampton, as the division’s director.

“We envision this new division to proactively address the pressing health issues that are affecting our county,” said Levy. “Many of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the US --  heart disease, diabetes and stroke – involve risk factors associated with individual lifestyle behaviors that are potentially modifiable.” 

“Prevention is the key to keeping residents in good health,” said Dr. Chaudhry. “With this new Division of Preventive Medicine we can create and promote opportunities for Suffolk County residents to take necessary steps to modify their eating and behavioral habits, with the aim of improving their health and preventing disease and premature death.” 

Included in the division’s activities will be:

• A first-ever Suffolk County children’s health summit, being coordinated in May between the county and various school districts;
• A Workplace Wellness Conference to help employers promote healthy lifestyles and disease prevention among their employees;
• A health promotion pilot program for the 1,600 employees of the County Department of Health Services;
• An Asthma demonstration program in the county health centers.