[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 32 (Wednesday, February 25, 2015)]
[House]
[Page H1150]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                NATIONAL EATING DISORDERS AWARENESS WEEK

  (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, this week is National Eating Disorders 
Awareness Week. This time is dedicated to educating parents and 
children about the causes and serious health conditions and 
consequences of eating disorders.
  Eating disorders affect more than 14 million Americans and have 
disproportionate impacts on teens and young adults. Beyond genetic 
links, factors such as consistent exposure to misleading advertising 
that distort one's own body image can lead to eating disorders. The key 
to containing this growing health issue is to spread awareness and 
promote authentic, healthy body images.
  That is why, Mr. Speaker, along with a bipartisan coalition, we have 
urged the Federal Trade Commission to uphold their duty to protect 
American consumers by working with health professionals and the 
advertising industry to promote fair and responsible advertisements, 
especially for products geared for children and teens.
  If you suspect that your child has an eating disorder, please seek 
professional help. There are many local resources available to 
families.

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