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In New Hampshire, almost two out of three adults and more than a quarter of our children are overweight or obese. NHPR’s series explores the causes, the consequences, and some promising solutions to a growing crisis.Fast Facts about Obesity in NH BROUGHT TO YOU IN PART BY: The HNHfoundation

The Government Vs. Obesity

Mayor Bloomberg’s attempt to ban super-sized sugary drinks in New York City was thwarted by a judge recently, but he plans to appeal.  Its brought up the question, once again, of how much of a role should government play in the fight against obesity. Supporters of this approach say it's such a serious problem that government needs to get involved, but others say these efforts amount to a nanny state and  that personal responsibility is the best approach.

Guests

  • Michael F. Jacobson - Co-founder and Executive Director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest.  He also serves as Executive Editor of the nonprofit group's publication, Nutrition Action Health letter.
  • David Just - Behavioral Economist with the Dyson School of Applied Economics & Management at Cornell University.

Laura is well known in New Hampshire for her in-depth coverage of important issues and is widely regarded for her interviews with presidential hopefuls. Laura is a graduate of Keene High School in New Hampshire. Prior to hosting The Exchange, Laura worked in public radio in Washington, D.C. as a local reporter and announcer for WAMU and as a newscaster for NPR. Before her radio career, she was a researcher for USA Today's "Money" section, and a research assistant at the Institute for International Economics. Laura occasionally guest hosts national programs such as The Diane Rehm Show and Here and Now. In 2007 Laura was named New Hampshire Broadcaster of the Year by the New Hampshire Association of Broadcasters.
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