MSSNY Supports Governor Spitzer’s Initiatives To Enhance Public Health Through Chronic Disease Management

LAKE SUCCESS, NY (01/09/2008)(readMedia)-- “We commend Governor Spitzer for re-stating his commitment to enhancing public health through initiatives designed to curb the incidence of childhood disease and to manage diseases affecting adults,” said Robert B. Goldberg, DO, President of the Medical Society of the State of New York.

“We remain supportive of the Governor’s work to shape children’s health behaviors by establishing nutritional standards for foods and beverages sold or offered in elementary and secondary schools,” Dr. Goldberg continued.

Children across the country are becoming more overweight and obese, putting them at risk for serious health concerns such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and elevated cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Schools are uniquely positioned to model and reinforce healthful eating behaviors. Because foods and beverages available on the school campus represent significant caloric intake, they should be designed to meet nutritional standards.

Moreover, Dr. Goldberg stated that “the Medical Society also supports the Governor’s proposal to devote more funding for diabetes and asthma self-management education which will enable adults to control factors that may exacerbate existing conditions such as diabetes and asthma, which have each reached epidemic levels in New York State”.

New York State’s physicians have been an integral part of the positive healthcare developments attained in recent memory. We are committed to a continued partnership with New York State in expanding and enhancing the availability and quality of health care services to all residents of our great state.

“We look forward to working with Governor Spitzer and the legislature on these important issues throughout this legislative session,” concluded Dr. Goldberg.

Founded in 1807, the Medical Society of the State of New York represents over 25,000 physicians, residents and medical students.

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