Member Services
- Text Decrease
- Text Increase
- Print Page
Education and regulation needed in fight on obesity
To win the fight against obesity we must combine education with regulation, according to AMA Victoria President Dr Doug Travis.Speaking after the release today of the Victorian Auditor General’s report ‘Promoting Better Health through Healthy Eating and Physical Activity’, Dr Travis said health promotion efforts must be backed with some hard political decisions on advertising and food regulations.
“Obesity and obesity-related chronic diseases are becoming a major burden on the healthcare system and cost the public millions each year,” Dr Travis said.
“The war on smoking is being won through a combination of education and regulation.
“While no-one wants excessive regulation, obesity is such a serious issue the State and Federal Governments must take action.”
Dr Travis said regulation changes should begin with:
• A ban on junk food advertising during children’s television viewing times
• Food labelling regulation reform to make healthy shopping easier for the general public.
Dr Travis said it was also important for individuals to be proactive in dealing with weight issues and discuss their weight with their family doctor.
“AMA Victoria acknowledges the State Government is committed to tackling obesity and its impacts.
“However, we must continue to increase efforts and research of the issues. There are no quick fixes, but these are measures which could be put in place now which would aid in the fight against obesity,” Dr Travis said.
Victorian Medical Directory
Quick Reference Links
Networks
Preferred Providers
Next
Prev