Nicole Wilson – 11/8/09

This page was last updated on November 8, 2009.

Childhood obesity can’t be ignored; Nicole Wilson; Beaver County Times; November 8, 2009. An editor’s note asserts, “The writer is pursuing a master’s degree in public health/health policy administration at the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public Health.”

Below is a detailed critique of the letter.

“You can’t pick up a newspaper or turn on the TV without being inundated by the latest updates in the health care reform debate.

“But there is a health issue that seems to be lingering in the shadows — childhood obesity.

“Childhood obesity is a catalyst that leads to Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, liver disease and sleep disorders, along with many other social and emotional problems.

“It was a positive step for the Obama administration and the Department of Agriculture to expand efforts in improving school meals and children’s health through the HealthierUS School Challenge.”

[RWC] Where in the Constitution is anything to do with “school meals and children’s health” an enumerated responsibility?

“Now, middle and high school students can benefit as well, not just elementary. Giving our schools the tools they need and recognizing the districts that are performing well provide motivation to attack the childhood obesity problem in our country.

“With one in three American children being obese, it’s an important issue we can’t overlook. Prevention can help curtail medical costs related to the effects of long-term obesity and make our system more efficient; possibly saving billions of dollars.

“Saving money, preventing unnecessary spending and improving the quality of life of our children — seems like something everyone should take an interest in.”

[RWC] Anyone want to guess on which end of the political spectrum Ms. Wilson stands?

In any case, if childhood obesity is a problem, isn’t it the responsibility of the parents to address diet, exercise, et cetera? It was when I was a kid. At the rate we’re going, it won’t be long before parents hand over their newborn baby to the government to raise.

Please read my paper entitled “Healthcare.”