Tom Harkin: Statement Of Senator Tom Harkin On The Nationwide Obesity Rates

August 27, 2007 -- WASHINGTON, D.C. --- Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), Chairman of the subcommittee which funds health care initiatives, issued the following statement today on the new obesity study released by the Trust for America’s Health, which found that Iowa maintained its national obesity rank of 20 and no state experienced a decrease in its levels of obesity.

Harkin is the sponsor of the Healthy Lifestyles and Prevention (HeLP) America Act, comprehensive legislation to provide all sectors – child care centers, schools, workplaces, and communities – with the tools they need to reach the goal of making America a healthier place.

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“Our schools are awash in sugary sodas and candy, we are shortening recess and PE, and then we are shocked that we have an obesity epidemic. As Pogo says, we have met the enemy and he is us. We need smarter public policies and programs to get our children off to strong start with good nutrition and plenty of physical activity.”

“America’s fight against obesity gets a flunking grade, and that means we are graduating to a future of diabetes, heart disease, and premature death. Our communities need to mobilize to fight this epidemic – and everyone needs to be part of the solution, including our schools, government, the food and advertising industries, and corporate America.”

Harkin, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee plans on using the upcoming farm bill as an opportunity to promote healthy living by investing in the fresh fruit and vegetable program, increasing access to locally grown foods and encouraging child nutrition.

Source: Senator Tom Harkin