Cooperation and collaboration between a public health unit and midsized private industry in health promotion...

In 1990, Cobequid Health Unit was approached by Polymer International, a plastics manufacturer, and planning began for a worksite cardiovascular risk factor screening and follow-up program. In 1991, 302 Polymer employees (89.1%) participated in a screening. Follow-up included smoking cessation programs, fitness opportunities, dietary counselling, and physician referral for further investigation of blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Policy and environmental changes include heart healthy foods at the cafeteria, development of non-smoking policy, and coverage under the corporate group insurance plan for dietary counselling. This process demonstrates the potential for public health and private industry to collaborate in preventive efforts and the principles required for success.