July2006.pdf

Iowa youth are making positive choices regarding cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs, according to the 2005 Iowa Youth Survey. The survey shows an increase in the percentage of Iowa youth choosing not to use tobacco, from 82% in 1999 to 90% in 2005. Additionally, there has been a 7% increase in students choosing not to drink alcohol and a 2% increase in those choosing not to use marijuana. Governor Tom Vilsack announced these findings, stating that the increases translate to thousands of kids making the right choices.

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has also launched a new website with improved searchability, an "A to Z Index," and cosmetic changes. A department-wide calendar is coming soon, and users can fill out a survey to help the IDPH better meet their needs.

Furthermore, Governor Vilsack signed the Brain Injury Services program bill, which will help those with brain injuries and their families navigate the community-based service system. The bill provides funding for Iowans on the waiting list for the Medicaid Home and Community Services Brain Injury Waiver and for services on a cost-share basis for those denied BI Waiver funding.

The IDPH is also partnering with various organizations to share health messages with citizens of all ages and backgrounds across Iowa. Events such as the Children and Families of Iowa KidsFest, the Asian Heritage Festival, and the Iowa State Fair have allowed the IDPH to reach over 1.1 million people this year. These partnerships play an important part in achieving the IDPH's mission of promoting and protecting the health of Iowans.