The second presidential debate between Secretary Clinton and Mr. Trump showcased a heated exchange between the candidates on many topics. But it was the lengthy discussion on healthcare that really caught HFR founder Samir Becic‘s attention.
For nearly 15 minutes the two squared off on how to fix the ailing healthcare system. The biggest point of contention surrounded the pros and cons of Obamacare. The candidates had a lot to say about costs, insurance providers, and coverage. Samir noticed that the lengthy sparring did not include any discussion of preventive care, such as physical fitness and healthy nutrition.
Samir had this to say on the topic of preventative medicine: “With proper fitness and healthy nutrition, we can avoid up to 70% of known illnesses, but there was not one word about preventative care from either candidate.
I’m openly asking Secretary Clinton and Mr. Trump to address preventive medicine in the third debate that can solve America’s healthcare issues. If Americans start eating healthier and working out, we will save billions of dollars in healthcare costs.
So why are the presidential candidates shying away from this? I issued several press releases encouraging presidential candidates to address healthy lifestyle dating back to 2014. So Mr. Trump and Secretary Clinton, please motivate America to adapt a healthy lifestyle. Because if there is one thing that the candidates can agree on, it is that Americans should enjoy increased quality of life and longer lifespans.”
Right now, 1 in 3 Americans is considered obese, with disastrous effects on health care costs and quality of life, and more than 70% of Americans are overweight. In 2008 obesity overtook tobacco usage as the leading cause of preventable death in the country. We need a top-down approach that starts in the White House.
Read more of our election coverage:
Hillary Clinton vs Donald Trump: Who is Fit for Office?
Mandatory Fitness Test for the U.S. President
Samir Becic’s Open Letter To The 2016 Presidential Candidates About The Obesity Epidemic
Fitness Report Card for the 2016 Presidential Candidates- Update
