GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES

The U.S. government is initiating and supporting policies that employ a long-range strategy for preventing, diagnosing and treating obesity across all populations.

• The Healthy Lifestyles and Disease Prevention Campaign from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is an innovative public awareness and education campaign that encourages American families to take small, manageable steps — instead of drastic changes — within their current lifestyle to ensure effective, long-term weight control. www.smallstep.gov
  
  
• Healthier U.S. is a health and fitness initiative orchestrated by the Bush Administration.
  
  
• The President’s Challenge is a series of programs designed to help encourage healthy lifestyles by promoting the integration of physical activity into everyday life.
  
  
• Carol M. White Physical Education for Progress (PEP) grants are distributed by the U.S. Department of Education to help schools improve and expand physical education programs.
  
  
• President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports serves as a catalyst to promote, encourage and motivate Americans of all ages to become physically active and participate in sports.
  
  
• The 5 A Day Better Health Program, a national effort, encourages Americans to eat five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
  
  
• Eat Smart. Play Hard is a national nutrition education and promotion campaign that focuses on four basic themes: breakfast, snacks, balance and physical activity.