Amid Hispanic Heritage Month, Health Equity Leaders Call on Congress to Urgently Prioritize Addressing Obesity’s Disproportionate Impact on Hispanic Americans
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Health Equity Coalition for Chronic Disease (HECCD) — which brings together some of the nation’s most prominent racial justice and health equity leaders — called on lawmakers to urgently prioritize addressing the rising obesity rates among Hispanic Americans, who are being disproportionately impacted by the ongoing obesity epidemic. New data released last month by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that more than 35% of Hispanic adults are affected by obesity in 34 states, at rates higher than their white counterparts.
Dr. Elena Rios, President and CEO of the National Hispanic Health Foundation and Co-Chair of the HECCD, calls on Congress to take action:
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to not only honor the contributions Hispanic Americans have made to the progress of our nation, but to recognize the inequities that continue to persist — especially when it comes to the health challenges facing our community. Obesity disproportionately burdens Hispanic Americans and Congress has the power to change this. The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA) must be passed by Congress to significantly expand Medicare coverage for obesity screenings, treatment, and FDA-approved therapies, including anti-obesity medications. Regardless of background or income, all individuals should have access to the treatments and resources necessary for leading healthy lives.”
Last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released alarming data showing that over 35% of Hispanic adults are affected by obesity in 34 states. The rate is even higher for Hispanic women – 78.6% are identified as clinically overweight or living with obesity. Obesity is linked to more than 200 serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, and some cancers.
HECCD remains committed to advocating for policies that promote health equity and address the chronic diseases that disproportionately impact communities of color. We urge policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to come together and make obesity care a national priority.
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The Health Equity Coalition for Chronic Disease (HECCD) believes that all people deserve the best possible health care. Continuing to allow outdated coverage policies to restrict access for communities dependent on public programs is counter to the principles of health equity. The Health Equity Coalition for Chronic Disease’s mission is to ensure that community experts, policy makers, providers, and other stakeholders work together to eliminate barriers to healthcare for communities of color, especially as related to access to care and treatment for obesity and other chronic diseases. Learn more at www.HealthEquityAction.org.
