The continuing epidemic of obesity is a critical public health concern. As a nation, we need to respond as vigorously to this epidemic as we do to an infectious disease epidemic.

We have demonstrated that prevention works and deserves support, ... Nevertheless, as in most areas of public health, support for prevention is frequently more rhetorical than substantive.

We learn something new every day in this investigation ... and apply that information to protect the public's health,

It is not news that obesity and related disorders are a major health concern for the U.S.. If it hasn't already, many experts believe that it will soon surpass tobacco as the number-one cause of preventable death in this country.

There are many disparities in health care, and this analysis has uncovered another area of concern. It is crucial that we implement or enhance systems that help protect against these disparities and improve the quality of care for all patients.

All preliminary data and test samples collected near the spill site indicated that there was no immediate public health concern.