Program Goals and Progress

Clear the Air

Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body. Cigarette smoking causes 87% of lung cancer deaths, and it is responsible for many other cancers and health problems, including lung disease, heart and blood vessel disease, stroke and cataracts.

Progress to Date

• Designed and distributed Tobacco Cessation brochures to all employees outlining resources available locally and through the State Health Plan.
• Organized on-campus tobacco cessation workshops.
• Continued advocacy for restrictive smoking/tobacco campus policies.

UNC Asheville on the Move

Health claims for UNC Asheville employees indicate Hypertension as the most prevalent condition for faculty and staff, and employees also ranked exercise and weight as their top two health concerns. Since weight gain and hypertension are strongly related to the lack of physical activity, the Workplace Wellness Program seeks to bolster exercise programs.

Progress to Date

• Developed and distributed updated walking trail maps and designed trail signage.
• Implemented the 100-Miler Walking Club, a program to incentivise walking on campus trails.
• Sponsorship of numerous Lunch 'n Learn programs dealing with physical activity.
• Implemented a marketing campaign to encourage greater use of the campus Fitness Center, including open houses and brochures.
• Sponsorship of faculty/staff group exercise classes starting right after the workday.
• Organized health fairs and employee health screenings.
• Implemented an incentive-based Weight Management Program that provides access to information, goal setting and personal trainers.
• Advocacy and promotion of exercise breakes throughout the workday.

Thrive With Five

It's hard to argue with the health benefits of a diet rich in vegetables and fruits.  Lower blood pressure, reduced risk of stroke and heart disease, reduced risk of some cancers, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and a mellowing effect on blood sugar all make the case for higher levels of fruit and vegetable intake.

Progress to Date

• Successfully lobbied the campus vending provider to include healthier items in vending machines, including improved labeling and cost shifting (healthier items cost less).
• Sponsorship of the Healthy Holiday Party contest.
• Sponsorship of campus events featuring healthy and local meats and produce.
• Numerous Lunch 'n Learn cooking demonstrations featuring healthy cooking practices.
• Partnership with Campus Dining to advocate and promote healthy selections in campus eateries.
• Co-Sponsorship of marketing events to promote healthy options available through Catering.
• Promotion of the Saturday Farmer's Market held weekly on campus.