SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - Studies back the theory that zip codes are stronger predictors of health than genetic codes.
Mary Michaels with "Live Well Sioux Falls," a branch of the city's health department, says where we live has the greatest impact on how well we live.
Michaels says it doesn't matter if the study is in rural or metro areas. She says researchers can compare neighborhoods that are a mile, or two miles, apart and the life expectancy in those close communities may vary by 5 to 10 years based on what the environment is like.
Live Well Sioux Falls and the American Heart Association are holding a roundtable discussion with local media Thursday to discuss how health can be a part of every story.
Michaels says the state of Sioux Falls health has some nagging issues. She says that includes obesity, smoking, lack of fruit and vegetable consumption, behavioral health and a binge drinking rate that is rising.
She says the rates of STD's are on the rise among residents ages 18 to 24.
She adds that less than half of adults in Minnehaha County are getting the recommended amount of physical activity.
Michaels says there are lots of resources to help citizens get healthier including a high quality of life, a strong education system and great parks and trail system. She says the goal is to communicate with individuals to help them with their environment in the city to make healthier choices.