OTTAWA, April 18, 2023 – In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister and Federal Minister of Health, CHEO President and CEO, Alex Munter voices CHEO's support for the government's proactive approach to regulate marketing of unhealthy food and drinks to children and youth.
"Parents deserve to have the government on their side," the letter says. "We know that a parental 'no' is not enough to counterbalance billions of dollars of sophisticated marketing directed at children."
Recent studies have shown that children aged 9-13 consume the highest amount of ultra-processed foods, with nearly 60 per cent of their diet linked to heart disease, stroke, cancers, and other serious health concerns. These statistics highlight the urgency of promoting healthy eating habits from an early age.
CHEO joins the chorus of organizations applauding the government's commitment to promoting healthy eating habits from an early age and looks forward to continued efforts to ensure a healthier future for children and youth.
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About CHEO
Dedicated to the best life for every child and youth, CHEO is a global leader in pediatric health care and research. Based in Ottawa, CHEO includes a hospital, children’s treatment centre, school and research institute, with satellite services located throughout Eastern Ontario. CHEO provides excellence in complex pediatric care, research and education. We are committed to partnering with families and the community to provide exceptional care — where, when and how it’s needed. CHEO is a partner of the Kids Come First Health Team, a network of partners in Eastern Ontario working to create a high quality, standardized and coordinated system for pediatric health care that is centred around children, youth and their families. Every year, CHEO helps more than 500,000 children and youth from Eastern Ontario, western Quebec, Nunavut and Northern Ontario.
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