The Sun Journal and Judy Meyer should be commended for recent obesity-related articles (Nov. 19). The Sun Journal has a good track record of exploring health issues to educate readers, such as its Heartbeat 2001 project, which examined all facets of the development and treatment of cardiovascular disease. The recent articles continue that commitment to inform and educate the public about its health, especially the health of children.

About 16 percent of American children and adolescents are overweight or obese – four times higher than two decades ago. Our nation’s physical and fiscal health is imperiled if this trend continues. Childhood obesity is leading to a broad range of health problems previously unseen until adulthood, including high blood pressure, type II diabetes and elevated blood cholesterol levels.

Addressing the childhood obesity epidemic is the collective responsibility of federal, state and local governments, communities, schools, media, and families.

Compared to the strong commitment and heavy infusion of public and private-sector resources devoted to other serious public health concerns – such as infectious disease outbreaks or bioterrorism – there is a marked lack of investment into the prevention of childhood obesity and related chronic diseases.

The Sun Journal’s willingness to educate readers about their health, especially about their children’s health, shows their commitment to building a healthier community and state. As the American Heart Association tries to educate people about risk factors for heart health, and recommended public policy changes to encourage healthier lifestyles, we appreciate the work of the Sun Journal.

Dennise D. Whitley, director of Advocacy-Maine,

American Heart Association