Like other states around the country, New Hampshire is grappling with a chronic health conditions epidemic. In the Granite State, approximately 55,000 children contend with a chronic health condition. Broken down, the numbers are sobering:
- Over 12 percent of N.H. children will suffer from asthma during their lifetimes.
- Thirteen percent of children between grades 9 and 12 are overweight, while another 11 percent are obese. Both groups are at risk for cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
- Approximately 75 children between infancy and age 19 are diagnosed with cancer each year.
The Council for Youths with Chronic Conditions is a parent-focused State council committed to being a voice for families of children with chronic health conditions. We educate and inform policy-makers and stakeholders of the unique challenges and opportunities to expand access to affordable; quality health care; foster supportive work environments; support community based services and celebrate the resiliency of children and their families.
The Council members are: Audrey Gerkin, Brentwood, Chair Karen Livernois, Londonderry, Asst. Chair Tim Guidish, Merrimac, Treasurer Kristin Bonny, Barrington, Secretary Annmarie Van De Water, Bow Laurie Fleming, Derry Deodonne P. Bhattarai, Concord Regan Lamphier, Nashua Dee Dunn, Department of Health and Human Services, Special Medical Services Department of Insurance, Josh Hillyard Betty Gay, NH Representative Heidi Petzold, Partners in Health Representative NH Senate, TBD Dr. Harohalli Shashidhar, Community member Sylvia Pelletier, NHFV Terry Ohlsen-Martin, NHFV Department of Education, TBD Pamela Becker, Council Administrator