COLUMBIA, S.C. — Given a choice, most people would opt to live healthier and live longer.
Areas around the world that accomplish those goals, leading to longer life expectancy, are called Blue Zones, and there has been interest in the Columbia area in how the city can incorporate some of those practices, possibly becoming a Blue Zone.
City of Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and Margaret Brown, Blue Zones Vice President of Business Development, will partner to host a Blue Zones Public Forum from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 1, at Segra Park Club Lounge, 1640 Freed St. The forum comes in response to a growing community-driven effort to have a Blue Zones Community Assessment conducted for the city. Register online for the free forum here.
An assessment would take a look at the health of the community as a whole, including the impact of:
- food systems: are healthy, fresh fruits and vegetables readily available
- social networks: are there safe places for people to meet or find support in their communities
- Policies and urban design: does the city promote a healthy, active lifestyle through the design and use of green spaces, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and access to healthcare
In an earlier interview with News19, Anthony Jackson, the president of Prisma Health Baptist, said the city faces health disparity issues and a lack of healthy lifestyle choices. He noted that if you live in one part of Columbia, your life expectancy might be 87 years; in another part, it's only 64 years old.
During Monday evening's meeting, attendees will learn about Blue Zones, hear how a community assessment would impact Columbia, and have the opportunity to share feedback and ask questions.