Florida health officials have forecast that 60 percent of state residents will be overweight by 2030. A global group with presidential ties is trying to stop that trend.A planning session organized by the Clinton Health Matters Initiative in Jacksonville on Wednesday focused on how to encourage healthier lifestyles across Northeast Florida.
Participants, including a representatives from Mayor Alvin Brown's office and the PGA tour, discussed ways to improve health outcomes in the region and set benchmarks for success.
Florida Surgeon General Dr. John Armstrong said the state's obesity rate has tripled in the last 25 years.
He said to be effective, there needs to be a better message than, “eat less, exercise more.”
"Healthiest Weight Florida is the top initiative in the Florida Department of Health to help Florida's kids, adults and families make more informed choices about what they eat and how they're active in life," he said, calling obesity the "top threat to our future."
Participants also discussed how employee health problems affect business production, community safety and the need for family and social support.
Once the group develops a blueprint for action, the foundation said it will work with community leaders to implement a strategic plan to improve the health and well-being of area residents.
According to their mission statement, The Bill, Hillary & Chelsea Clinton Foundation brings together businesses, governments, and individuals to advance issues of health and wellness, equality for women and girls, childhood obesity, economic growth, and climate change.
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