As a wealthy county, DuPage suffers from the same health problems common to other affluent communities, including chronic problems related to heart disease, preventable cancers, and premature death resulting from suicides and accidental injuries. Other important health concerns include depression and the inappropriate use of alcohol and other drugs.

Sadly, those most likely to take their own lives or die as the result of an accident are our young people. Moreover, these kinds of deaths can often be prevented. Understanding and attending to mental health problems might prevent a suicide, and continually reinforcing the importance of safe, sober driving using a seat belt and appropriate child restraint could help reduce the number of traffic fatalities.

Most DuPage residents reported that they are in good shape, physically and mentally. But we must not become complacent about our county’s health; we need to recognize that in certain areas and sub-populations, serious problems exist. An awareness of the special needs of our youth and young adult populations, our elderly residents, and, as our population becomes more diverse, different ethnic groups is essential to ensuring that all residents receive the health care services they need and that DuPage maintains a high level of physical and mental health.