LEXINGTON, SC (WIS) -
The city of Lexington and the city of Orangeburg are separated by a mere 30 miles. But if miles were measured by the fitness of those living in those counties, you wouldn't find two counties in this state more further apart.
Lexington County recently scored as the third best in the state when it comes to healthy living.
Orangeburg County, according to health county rankings, is the second worse behind Allendale County.
Lauren Neely, who works with the Eat Smart/Move More program, specializes in making counties healthier.
"When you're looking at a community like Lexington, it's more densely populated. So quite honestly there are just more options available to residents," Neely said.
Case in point -- gyms and health clubs. A 411 search reveals that there are only five gyms or health clubs in Orangeburg County. In Lexington County, residents have the choice between 11 such establishments.
"Things that influence obesity besides personal behavior are things like location, geographical income, race," Neely said.
The 2010 US Census says the poverty rate in Lexington County is 11.1 percent and it's 25.8 percent in Orangeburg County.
Neely says it's not just about individual choice of what to order, it's about what choices and programs are available. Lexington County, she says, has a very coordinated effort between the YMCA, schools, and other efforts. She says Orangeburg has big potential and DHEC is looking at options.
"So Orangeburg is a rural town, but agriculture is huge in Orangeburg County. So how do we work with the current agriculture system to make it available locally?" Neely said.
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