HHS Announces Development of Physical Activity Guidelines
Mike Leavitt, secretary of health and human services, announced on Thursday that the federal government will begin development of exercise guidelines to be released in 2008.
"Physical activity is vital to promote and maintain health, but it's easy for many of us to overlook," Secretary Leavitt said. "The physical activity guidelines will underscore the importance of physical activity to America's health and assist on the journey to a healthier life. Good health -- wellness -- doesn't just happen. Wellness has to be a habit."
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans will be issued in late 2008. The Physical Activity Guidelines will summarize the latest knowledge about activity and health, with depth and flexibility targeting specific population subgroups, such as seniors and children. This is inspired by the President's personal dedication to physical fitness and his desire that every American have access to science based guidelines.
Secretary Leavitt underscored the importance of shifting from a treatment-focused society to one that values prevention-based care. Treatment for chronic diseases accounts for 75 percent of what America spends on health care each year, and overweight and obesity affects an estimated 66 million individuals. Emphasis on the four pillars of the HealthierUS initiative -- physical activity, good diet, healthy choices and preventive screening -- is crucial for the nation's health.
"Changing the culture from one of treating sickness to staying healthy calls for small steps and good choices to be made each and every day," Secretary Leavitt said. "These physical activity guidelines will encourage the creation of a culture of wellness across America."
The President's proposed FY 2007 budget for the federal health department calls for $640 million on obesity-related efforts, which will fund a range of activities from research into obesity to regulating the labeling of trans fats.