A federal commission examines how policy, data, and coordination may address the rise in chronic illnesses affecting children across the United States.
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MAHA Commission
In early 2025, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched a new federal initiative to investigate why so many American children are facing chronic health conditions. The result: a report by the MAHA Commission (Make America Healthy Again), created through Executive
Order 14212 and delivered
just 98 days after its formation.
Led by HHS Secretary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Commission released a full assessment of the
environmental, dietary, and policy-related factors contributing to a surge in
childhood illnesses. Its findings now shape a cross-agency response aimed at
reducing rates of obesity, diabetes, cancer, autism, and mental health
disorders among young Americans.
The MAHA Commission
identified poor diet, chronic stress, toxic exposures, sedentary behavior, and
overmedication as key contributing factors. Instead of tackling each issue
separately, the federal government is now using shared data, health
monitoring tools, and interagency collaboration to coordinate its next
steps.
The Commission’s
approach reflects a new model of smart government technology—one that
uses digital systems to link science, policy, and action.
The Commission’s
report was just the beginning. Within 82 days of its release, each agency
involved must submit a strategic plan aligned with the findings. Together, they
will form the “Make Our Children Healthy Again Strategy.” This national
plan will focus on measurable changes in food systems, environmental policy,
and childhood care.
Importantly, the
process will be transparent. HHS will publish regular updates on agency
performance, showing what actions have been taken and how they align with the
strategy.
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