U.S. Surgeon General Committed to Addressing Obesity

The Obesity Society Looks Forward to Working with Dr. Vivek Murthy to Help Those Affected

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Dec 16, 2014, 10:30 ET

SILVER SPRING, Md., Dec. 16, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The United States Senate took long-awaited action to confirm Vivek Murthy, MD, as United States Surgeon General, a step The Obesity Society (TOS) calls promising for the future of obesity research and treatment.

"We congratulate Dr. Murthy on his confirmation and look forward to working with him to address obesity, one of our nation's most prevalent public health issues," said Nikhil Dhurandhar, PhD, TOS President. "Today, millions of Americans continue to be denied health insurance coverage for proven obesity treatments, and we hope that during his term Dr. Murthy makes a commitment to improving access to care for those affected by obesity and overweight."

In his comments during his February 4, 2014 confirmation hearing before the Senate Health Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, Dr. Murthy spoke passionately about his desire to actively address the nation's obesity epidemic. As the leading professional organization with a focus on obesity research, treatment and prevention, TOS hopes to be an integral partner of this effort in the Nation's Capital and in local communities around the country.

"We look forward to working with Dr. Murthy to ensure his term leaves a historical mark on obesity research, education and access to care," said Dr. Dhurandhar.

About The Obesity Society
The Obesity Society (TOS) is the leading professional society dedicated to better understanding, preventing and treating obesity. Through research, education and advocacy, TOS is committed to improving the lives of those affected by the disease. For more information visit: www.Obesity.org. Connect with us on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

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SOURCE The Obesity Society