WASHINGTON – The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded more than $119 million to states and U.S. territories to combat chronic diseases and promote healthy lifestyles.

The funds will support public health efforts to reduce obesity, increase physical activity, improve nutrition and decrease smoking, thus preventing costly future treatments. This is one of several components of HHS’ prevention and wellness initiative, “Communities Putting Prevention to Work.”

"Our goal through these statewide projects is to help make healthy choices the easier choices for all Americans, no matter where they live," said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "When we improve obesity-related and tobacco policies, we make it that much easier for people to eat right, to get more physical activity and to avoid or stop smoking."

The funds – provided to every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and six Pacific territories – were awarded in three major categories:

• Statewide policy and environmental change. All 58 applicants will receive funding for efforts in nutrition, physical activity and tobacco control. Award amounts to states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico range from $335,801 to $2.2 million. Territory award amounts range from $99,980 to $100,000.
• Competitive special policy and environmental change. Thirteen states are being funded to implement 15 projects. The award amounts range from $1 million to $3 million per state.
• Tobacco cessation through “quitlines” and media. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention received applications-from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Fifty-three applicants will receive funding to expand tobacco quit-lines in concert with expanded cessation media campaigns. The award amounts range from $50,000 to $2.5 million.