Bill > SJR155

This joint resolution designates September as "National Obesity Awareness Month" in New Jersey to highlight the growing problem of obesity and its significant health and economic impacts. The resolution points out that obesity is a national epidemic affecting over one-third of U.S. adults, with New Jersey's obesity rate currently at 25.6 percent and projected to reach nearly 48.6 percent by 2030 if current trends continue. The resolution aims to create awareness about the serious health consequences of obesity, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, which are leading causes of preventable death. Furthermore, it requests the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to participate in activities and programs that promote healthy living habits and raise awareness about obesity prevention. By highlighting the substantial annual medical costs associated with obesity (estimated at $147 billion nationwide in 2008) and the individual health risks, the resolution seeks to mobilize public attention and action toward addressing this critical health challenge.

Health and Social Services

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/SJR155