The director of the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) announced Wednesday that the department has added a podcast feature on its Web site in an effort to further communicate its health message to Michigan residents.

"We want to reach out and connect with all Michigan residents and this new feature on the department's Web site will make that possible," said MDCH Director Janet Olszewski. "All of the podcasts will be in line with our overall mission of promoting health. To live a healthy life, Michigan residents must take control of their health and these podcasts are another tool people can use to do that."

Podcasts, a form of audio segments online, will be available for Web site visitors to listen to and keep current with Michigan health events. The podcasts will feature tips and information on various topics such as the benefits of maintaining a healthy heart, visiting a doctor and dentist routinely, eating the right foods and exercising.

The podcasts will be updated regularly to accompany various events and news related to health issues in Michigan. To listen to the podcasts and learn more about MDCH's initiatives, please visit the Web site.