STAT+: HHS plans \u2018bold, edgy\u2019 campaign on ultra-processed foods and diabetes
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The links between ultra-processed food and higher risk of diabetes will be the focus of the first wave of health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.\u2019s national \u201cTake Back Your Health\u201d campaign, according to a notice<\/a> posted on a government site for contractors.<\/p>\n The notice invites public relations agencies to pitch strategies for the launch of the ad campaign, \u201ca wake-up call to Americans that eating processed foods dramatically increases the risk of diabetes and chronic disease.\u201d<\/p>\n NBC News first reported<\/a> in April on the Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 plans for a national campaign focused on healthy eating and exercise, which could cost tens of millions of dollars over the next four years. The new notice estimates that the diabetes and ultra-processed foods campaign will cost between $10-20 million, and that following campaigns will be similar in size.\u00a0<\/p>\n The call for pitches was posted on the evening of June 12, with a swift deadline of June 26. It asks not only for \u201cdaring, viral messaging to motivate behavior change\u201d but for campaigns that specifically \u201cpopularize technology like wearables as cool, modern tools for measuring diet impact and taking control of your health.\u201d Surgeon general nominee Casey Means<\/a>\u2019 health tech company, Levels, uses continuous glucose monitors and lab testing to help people track their health.\u00a0<\/p>\n Previous administrations have made similar efforts to shift lifestyle behaviors in order to improve public health, such as Michelle Obama\u2019s \u201cLet\u2019s Move<\/a>\u201d campaign focused on childhood obesity. But the new campaign\u2019s specific focus on ultra-processed foods is unique.<\/p>\n Continue to STAT+ to read the full story\u2026<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n