HHS HealthBeat (March 14, 2006)

Healthy vets

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I'm Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

Being in the military can be the most active life you can have. But when you return to civilian life, things often change. Veterans, like other Americans, are at risk of conditions that can be prevented by being in shape and eating right.

Surgeon General Richard Carmona:

"There is more obesity. There is more diabetes. There is more cardiovascular disease. We owe it to our veterans to not let that happen – to give you the tools to stay healthy." (nine seconds)

That's why the departments of Veterans Affairs and Health and Human Services are joining in a campaign called HealthierUS Veterans. Through VA and HHS-affiliated facilities, vets can take part in easy-to-start weight management programs and fitness challenges. And they’ll get the encouragement of vet volunteers to help them learn how to eat right and be active.

Learn more at www.hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I'm Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: August, 15 2006