WASHINGTON, September 17, 2009 - With risk factors for heart disease and stroke jeopardizing the health and well-being of children and adults alike, we need a multi-faceted approach to help Americans adopt healthy behaviors where they live, work, learn and play. The Department of Health and Human Services’ new initiative, Communities Putting Prevention to Work, funded through the economic stimulus package, provides a strong foundation for creating environments that will encourage us to eat healthy, become physically active and curb tobacco use. Obesity and smoking are risk factors for chronic illnesses and contribute to soaring health care costs. Annual medical spending on overweight and obesity in the U.S. has climbed to $147 billion and direct medical costs associated with smoking total approximately $96 billion a year. The American Heart Association strongly supports initiatives that will prevent tobacco use through enactment of comprehensive smoke-free workplace laws and expansion of smoking cessation programs to help smokers quit.

These programs have proven to be successful in many communities with up to 40 percent of participants kicking the habit and staying off cigarettes for at least one year. Other measures to help families get active and make healthy food choices in schools, homes and communities will address our nation’s obesity epidemic. Improving the nutritional value of school meals and increasing quality physical education programs in schools will give children the tools they need to adopt healthy behaviors. We’re also pleased the grant programs will encourage communities to expand sidewalks and biking paths to allow Americans to make walking and physical activity a part of their daily routine. If we hope to reduce tobacco use and obesity, preventable causes of death and disability, we need to make a concerted effort to create healthier environments. This can be achieved with prevention and wellness strategies that reach individuals in their own communities.

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Contact: Suzanne Ffolkes
Director of Media Advocacy
Phone: (202) 785-7929