Statement from Ontario's doctors in support of restaurant menu labelling.

TORONTO, May 8, 2012 /CNW/ - Ontario doctors are urging all MPPs to support a bill being tabled today to ensure that calorie counts and other nutritional information is displayed on chain restaurant menus. The Healthy Decisions for Healthy Eating bill, introduced today by NDP MPP France Gélinas, Nickelbelt, supports what Ontario's doctors have been calling for.

Over half of the adult population and one quarter of Ontario's children are overweight or obese. Obesity rates are rising and 75% of obese kids become obese adults. The illnesses associated with obesity include type-2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, and hypertension in children.  Obese children show a disease profile that matches that of overweight or obese adults, meaning they begin to have serious chronic diseases much earlier in life.  Overall, the health impacts of obesity and being overweight are estimated to cost Ontario $2.2 to $2.5 billion per year.

Obesity is a growing epidemic in Ontario and we can't afford to wait any longer before taking steps to address it.  The Ontario government has said repeatedly that they are working on this issue.  Ontario's doctors are calling on the government to pass this proposed legislation, and show Ontarians that they are serious about tackling obesity.

Doug Weir, MD
President
Ontario Medical Association

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