Recognizing the need of Congress to prevent, address, and treat obesity as a disease in the United States on this World Obesity Day, March 4, 2025.
Impact
The resolution outlines the profound implications of obesity on individual health, linking it to various comorbidities, including coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental illness. It further highlights the significant economic burden obesity places on the healthcare system, with direct costs predicted to escalate sharply from $283 billion in 2023 to $526.5 billion by 2033, not to mention the indirect costs attributed to reduced productivity and quality of life. By framing obesity as a disease, the resolution aims to galvanize efforts and resources towards more effective prevention, treatment, and research strategies to combat this public health crisis.
Summary
HR185 is a resolution recognizing the pressing need for Congress to prevent, address, and treat obesity as a disease in the United States, which is highlighted on World Obesity Day, March 4, 2025. The resolution lays bare the alarming obesity rates among adults and children in the country, emphasizing that over 42% of adults and 19% of children are classified as obese. The document points out that certain demographics, especially Black-American and rural populations, face disproportionately higher obesity rates, indicating a stark divide in health outcomes related to socioeconomic status and geography.
Contention
While the resolution seeks to promote awareness and action around obesity, potential contention lies in the varied perceptions and stigmas surrounding the condition. Advocates argue for a more robust categorization of obesity as a disease to help eliminate discrimination and improve access to healthcare resources, whereas opposing views may prioritize individual responsibility and lifestyle factors in the onset of obesity. The resolution aims to foster a narrative that grows compassion and understanding, promoting systemic change alongside personal accountability.
Expressing support for the designation of September 2024 as "Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month" in order to educate communities across the United States about sickle cell disease and the need for research, early detection methods, effective treatments, and preventative care programs with respect to complications from sickle cell disease and conditions related to sickle cell disease.
Recognizing suicide as a serious public health problem and expressing support for the designation of September as "National Suicide Prevention Month" as well as September 10, 2024, as "World Suicide Prevention Day".
Recognizing the rise of cardiovascular disease as the world's leading cause of preventable death and disability and as the global public health crisis of this generation and supporting the recognition of February 2023 as "American Heart Month".
Calling for comprehensive legislation that addresses United States policies contributing to forced migration and displacement, promotes an immigration system that addresses the root causes of migration, reaffirms United States commitment to asylum, and provides a roadmap to citizenship for immigrants living in the United States.