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• Action Brief: Government's Role in Promoting Physical Activity & Healthy Eating (PDF)
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• ENACT: Government

• ENACT: Workplace

• ENACT: Community

GOVERNMENT

What people eat and whether or not they are active is more than a matter of individual responsibility. Issues of governmental concern such as community design, neighborhood safety, and access to affordable fresh foods and quality health care influence activity and eating patterns. Health problems are taking a terrible toll on communities with limited resources and government provides the "safety-net" for those who have access to the fewest resources. To make progress towards the elimination of racial, ethnic and economic health disparities, government must direct resources to communities in greatest need. Government can also serve as a role model by increasing access to healthy options among its employees and among community residents who utilize city facilities. NEXT: Industry