Vermont public health association

Adopted January 2014

The Vermont Public Health Association (VtPHA) recognizes that being overweight or malnourished directly impacts the health and well-being of individuals and poses significant risk for the development of life-threatening chronic diseases. Lack of regular physical activity contributes to obesity and is a health risk factor independent of weight.

VtPHA supports:

• Environmental and community-based approaches such as recreational paths and safe sidewalks, following “complete streets” principles, that encourage and allow for increased physical activity including safe and inviting options for walking and biking to school.
• Ready access to information about healthy food choices and physical activity.
• Access to affordable, healthy foods for Vermonters.
• Promotion and support of physical activity and healthy food choices in schools.
• Access to evidence-based weight reduction and weight maintenance programs.
• Tax initiatives that apply to sugar-sweetened beverages, and direct the revenue generated to public health programs that address obesity prevention and support the promotion of healthy weight.
• Making community school facilities and grounds available to residents for recreational activities.