Congressman Veasey Addresses Health Disparities

Washington, D.C – Rep. Veasey introduced a resolution to commemorate the month of May as "Health and Fitness Month." Today marks the sixth year in a row Congressman Veasey has demonstrated his commitment to empowering all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and good nutrition.

"It's a fact that chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity affect communities of color and poor people at a higher rate," said Congressman Veasey. "That is why it's vital we work to make nutritious food accessible in schools, encourage our young people to remain active, and develop good eating habits they can practice throughout their lives."

Nearly two-thirds of adults and one third of children are overweight or obese in the United States. Black adults are two times as likely as white adults to develop type two diabetes. Lack of physical activity, overeating, and the expense of nutritious food all play a role in this obesity epidemic that dramatically affects people of color and low-income Americans. High obesity rates have also contributed to the pervasiveness of diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic diseases that are strains on our healthcare system.

Every year since he was elected to Congress, Congressman Veasey has introduced a resolution to designate May as Health and Fitness Month to ensure we are prioritizing the well-being and health of our families. The resolution commemorates May as Health and Fitness Month and encourages efforts to educate Americans on the importance of living a healthy and active lifestyle. The full text of the legislation can be found here.