How Kennedy Could ‘Go Wild on Health,’ and The Onion’s Infowars Bid
Nov 15, 2024
auto_awesome
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial nomination for a health position sparks discussions on public health and political maneuvering. The alarming rise of obesity in America is highlighted, showcasing a complex health crisis. Meanwhile, The Onion's unexpected acquisition of Infowars aims to transform the site into a platform for satire and social commentary. Lastly, an unusual boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul captures attention, as viewers ponder the motivations behind their age-defying showdown.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services raises alarms about potential shifts in U.S. health policy.
A dramatic rise in obesity rates among Americans highlights urgent public health needs, necessitating both individual actions and structural reforms.
Deep dives
Concerns About Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Nomination
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services raises significant concerns due to his controversial views and lack of formal medical training. While he aims to address issues like ultra-processed foods, his prominence as a vaccine skeptic is alarming, as he has propagated debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. Kennedy's potential approach to public health could include drastic changes, such as downsizing the National Institutes of Health and cutting its budget, which has sent shockwaves through the medical community. His nomination could lead to a shift in health policy that may undermine scientific consensus and public health measures in the U.S.
Obesity Epidemic in America
A recent study reveals a stark increase in obesity rates, indicating that nearly three out of four Americans are now overweight or obese, marking a rise from just over half in 1990. The researchers emphasize the alarming trend in childhood obesity, with one-third of American children falling into these categories, which can lead to serious health conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Factors contributing to this epidemic include poor exercise habits, limited access to quality food, and complex genetic influences that are not entirely understood. To combat obesity, experts suggest the need for individual lifestyle changes alongside structural reforms, such as taxing sugary drinks and imposing stricter regulations on unhealthy food marketing.
Tune in every weekday morning. To get our full audio journalism and storytelling experience, download the New York Times Audio app — available to Times news subscribers on iOS — and sign up for our weekly newsletter.
Tell us what you think at: theheadlines@nytimes.com.