Kern Has Some Of Worst Health Stats In The State — And Officials Are Trying To Change That
“The reality is, we have levels of obesity and chronic disease that are not only epidemic, but are still on the rise. Compared to much of the state, Kern County bears a heavy and disproportionate burden of poor health,” Public Health Officer Claudia Jonah said.
The Bakersfield Californian:
Health Director: Reversing Alarming County Health Risks Requires Community Involvement
Kern County doesn’t have the best health.In fact, in some cases, it has the worst. When it comes to some ailments — like diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and chronic lower respiratory disease — Kern residents suffer more than those living in almost any other county in the state, according to 2016 data released this week. Kern County Public Health Services Department officials pointed to those figures during a summit Thursday that called on communities to make necessary changes to reverse trends. (Pierce, 3/16)
In other news from across the state —
San Francisco Chronicle:
The Best Bay Area Dispensaries For Seniors
Finding and acquiring medical cannabis in the Bay Area can be a daunting task for atypical users like seniors. They’re not familiar with dispensary locator sites, and they often have limited mobility and are easily intimidated by the kinds of rougher neighborhoods that city officials have been shunting dispensaries into. Below the Chronicle reviews the best dispensaries for seniors in the Bay Area — places where the parking is easy, the atmosphere is inviting, and the service and products are top-notch. (Downs, 3/16)
The Mercury News:
San Carlos: Alleged Fake Dentist Tied To Drugs, Weapons
A felon has been arrested after purportedly working as an unlicensed dentist and cooking meth at his “crude” San Carlos office, authorities say. Joseph Hirsch, 59, is being held in San Mateo County jail on $500,000 bail on suspicion of offenses that include possessing and manufacturing controlled substances, possessing brass knuckles, and possessing ammunition as a felon. (Salonga, 3/16)