| September 19, 2002 |
Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX-12) was joined today by Congresswoman Mary Bono (CA-44) and Senator Bill First (TN) to announce the introduction of comprehensive legislation to reduce obesity, particularly among children and adolescents.
The "Improved Nutrition and Physical Activity (IMPACT)" Act recognizes the serious health issues that arise from obesity and seeks to reduce those problems by encouraging improved nutrition and more physical activity.
"Over 60 percent of Americans are overweight or obese," stated Congresswoman Granger. "These Americans face much greater risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and dozens of other ailments. This bill will educate children and adults on how to live a better life and lead to a healthier America."
At the press conference Congresswoman Granger also acknowledged the importance of this issue to her Fort Worth district.
"This year, Fort Worth was named the 'Eighth Fattest City' in America and three other Texas cities made the top ten. The number of overweight Texas teenagers has tripled since I was a teacher in the 1970's. We must act to educate and encourage healthy lifestyles," stated Congresswoman Granger.
An estimated 61 percent of U.S. adults and 13 percent of children are overweight, and an estimated 300,000 deaths per year are associated with being overweight or obese. There are twice as many overweight children and three times the number of overweight teens as there were thirty years ago.
Overweight individuals have an increased risk for the two leading causes of death in our country, heart disease and cancer. These individuals also have an increased risk for diabetes and musculo-skeletal disorders like osteoarthritis.