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Kaplan, who leads the multisector, independent advocacy group aimed at changing federal policy to reverse obesity, said CDC's data "makes it eminently clear that the greatest single cost savings in our health care system can be realized by reversing the nation's obesity epidemic." Kaplan is the director of the Massachusetts General Hospital Weight Center and an associate professor of medicine at Harvard University.
Speaking for the Campaign, he urged that Congress recognize obesity as a disease, and begin by enacting language in health care reform legislation that will standardize the monitoring and reporting of body mass index (BMI). "The American patient knows whether they have unhealthy levels of cholesterol or blood pressure. We must give Americans that same understanding about whether their weight is healthy. That begins the road to recovery."
Kaplan also applauded former President Clinton, who yesterday noted that children's BMI should be monitored and tracked in his opening remarks at the CDC forum. "President Clinton is a leading voice in the area of American health and wellness, and he is a particular champion for a healthy future for our children. We applaud his vision and leadership, and hope policymakers in Washington will heed his call," Kaplan said.
Click here to read full statement.
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