On the recordFebruary 23, 2010
On behalf of the ranking member and the Energy and Commerce Committee, I rise in support of H. Res. 274, supporting the designation of March as National Nutrition Month. Over the last 20 years, obesity rates have been steadily increasing in the United States. According to the CDC, in 2008, 32 States had a prevalence of obesity equal to or greater than 25 percent. Six of these States--Alabama, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia--had a prevalence of obesity equal or greater than 30 percent. I am glad that my home State of Nebraska is not on this, but we have been shoveling enough snow that our children are getting some exercise. Obesity rates among children and adolescents are especially staggering and have led to increasing health problems such as diabetes and heart disease among this population. Poor nutrition habits and sedentary lifestyle both have been linked with many of the obesity and health problems that afflict Americans today. Many dietary factors have led to conditions such as heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes. But through proper nutrition, regular exercise, and controlling weight problems, these threats to our health are far less likely to occur. It is important for Americans to recognize the significance of monitoring their own eating habits and that of their family.
