Cathy Taylor, Dr.P.H., R.N.
Taylor on state diabetes board
Vanderbilt University School of Nursing's Cathy Taylor, Dr.P.H., R.N., was recently appointed to the Tennessee Center for Diabetes Prevention and Health Improvement Board of Trustees by Gov. Phil Bredesen.
The center is charged with combating the growing problem of type 2 diabetes in Tennessee and to improve the overall health of Tennesseans. The latest figures from the state show that 62.3 percent of Tennesseans are overweight or obese, a contributing factor to type 2 diabetes.
“Cathy's roots as a public health nurse combined with her research will help her improve the lives of Tennesseans,” said Colleen Conway-Welch, Ph.D., dean of VUSN.
The center consists of seven members, five of whom are appointed by the Governor. By statute, the appointments include one member who is a physician licensed in Tennessee, one who is a registered nurse, one who is a dietitian licensed in Tennessee, and one member who represents a human resources management or business perspective.
“Tennessee children are very much at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and it's not confined to an urban, rural or suburban area — it's across the board,” Bredesen said. “It's going to take some intense work with communities, schools and parents to develop meaningful long-term solutions to this problem. I'm counting on the Center for Diabetes Prevention and Health Improvement Board of Trustees to help make that happen.”