From Neal Barnard, M.D., Physicians Committee (pcrm.org)

As you know, meat and cheese-heavy diets have led to an epidemic of childhood obesity and many other health problems. Despite efforts from the presidential administration, many problems remain unaddressed. We know that chronic health conditions that disproportionately impact low-income Americans are linked to poorer diet. We know that encouraging healthier eating at an early age instills healthier habits for a lifetime and can be reinforced in the school environment, in the workplace, in the home, and in the community.

Ask President Barack Obama to address health disparities and childhood obesity in the State of the Union. In order for our voice to be heard, we need your help to get 100,000 signatures on our White House petition leading up to the annual State of the Union address on Jan. 20.

We respectfully ask President Barack Obama to lay out a bold vision in his State of the Union Address for improving America’s health and combating childhood obesity by addressing (1) the poor state of health of many Americans, (2) the glaring health disparities between people who are economically challenged and those of means, and (3) continuing poor diet habits in children and the lack of progress in preventing childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic health conditions directly linked to poor diets.

The petition needs 100,000 signatures for the White House to provide a response.

Please ask your friends and family to sign the petition and share on Facebook and Twitter.

Sincerely,