HEALTH CARE AND OBESITY PREVENTION
Introduction
It is estimated that 68.5% of Americans age 20 and over are overweight, of which 35.3% are obese (DHHS, 2013) Problem Of the estimated total medical spending in the United States, 10% or $147 billion could be attributed to obesity. The United States needs measures to control the obesity epidemic. Affordable Care Act $15 Billion in Ten Years
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Conclusion
The potential to accelerate progress in obesity prevention requires a systems approach comprised of five critical areas as depicted in the figure below. Each area will reinforce, maximize, and amplify obesity prevention (Institute of Medicine, 2012). Prevention Programs at the Government, State, and Local Level
Government •Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” "Let’s Move! is a comprehensive initiative, launched by the First Lady, dedicated to solving the challenge of childhood obesity within a generation, so that children born today will grow up healthier and able to pursue their dreams." •Healthy People 2020 Healthy People provides science-based, 10-year national objectives for improving the health of all Americans. •Partnership for Healthy America The Partnership for a Healthier America (PHA) is devoted to working with the private sector to ensure the health of our nation’s youth by solving the childhood obesity crisis. •Alliance for a Healthier Generation The Alliance for a Healthier Generation is a catalyst for children’s health. We work with schools, companies, community organizations, healthcare professionals and families to transform the conditions and systems that lead to healthier kids. State (TEXAS Programs) •Long Live Texans Long Live Texans is the go-to resource for chronic disease prevention in Texas. It is developed and managed by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Long Live Texans serves as the connector for agencies, organizations, and communities working collaboratively in the state’s Coordinated Chronic Disease Initiative. •Plan Healthy, Texas Healthy, Texas, is a place where active living and healthy eating are the Texas way of life. It is a place where individuals, organizations and communities work together to create an environment where healthy living is the easy choice. •Farm to Work Farm to Work is a partnership with local farmers and work sites. The partnerships create markets for local farmers to sell nutritious, sustainably grown produce directly to the staff of participating organizations. Through this web site, their employees can learn about local food, download recipes, and order a basket of fresh, locally grown produce delivered right to work. Suggested Community Efforts •CDC Measures Project •Availability of healthy food and beverages •Support healthy food and beverage choices •Encourage physical activity among children and youth •Create safe communities that support physical activity |