Acknowledgments

The Surgeon General’s Call To Action To Address Overweight and Obesity is part of a national commitment to combat the epidemic of overweight and obesity in the United States, led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Leadership and direction were provided by Surgeon General David Satcher and Deputy Surgeon General Kenneth Moritsugu.

Development of the Call To Action was coordinated by the HHS Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP), under the leadership of Randolph Wykoff. Principal responsibility for editing the Call To Action was carried out by Paul Ambrose, with project management carried out by Kathryn McMurry. Technical and editorial support were provided by the members of the HHS Steering Committee. Critical scientific oversight was provided by William Dietz and Van Hubbard.

Research, analysis, and writing support were provided by ODPHP medical residents and fellows: Sajida Chaudry, Joan Davis, Cheryl Iverson, Mwango Kashoki, David Meyers, Stacey Sheridan, Lisa Stoll, and Karyl Thomas.

Logistical support and coordination with the Office of the Surgeon General was provided by Ann Elderkin.

Substantial public input was sought and received at multiple steps in the process of developing the Call To Action. Sincere gratitude is extended to all who contributed to the national dialogue on overweight and obesity in the United States:

1. Discussion leaders and participants at the May 2000 National Nutrition Summit.
2. Panelists and participants at the December 2000 Surgeon General’s Listening Session.
3. All who provided written public comments.

In addition, advance gratitude is extended to all interested stakeholders who will respond to the Call To Action and begin or continue to take action to alleviate the critical public health problem of overweight and obesity.