Press Release

Research shows many Hispanic Families are Still Unclear About How to Live Healthfully

NEW YORK, Oct. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The Advertising Council in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture's Food Nutrition and Consumer Services recently launched new Spanish-language public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to motivate Hispanic families to lead a healthy lifestyle that includes good nutrition and adequate physical activity. The campaign prominently features characters from the beloved Disney's, Jungle Book.

To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/adcouncil/35158/

A recent survey conducted on behalf of the Ad Council's Coalition for Healthy Children shows that parents continue to be deficient when it comes to knowing how to foster healthy lifestyle habits in the home, with 39% of all mothers surveyed reporting that they are unclear about which foods are considered healthy for their families. Furthermore, Hispanic parents show greater disparities, with 49% of Hispanic parents reporting that they are unclear about which foods are healthy for their families. Research indicates that being overweight during childhood and adolescence is associated with obesity during adulthood, and can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and some types of cancer.

"The combination of proper nutrition and daily physical activity are critical for a healthier lifestyle," said USDA's Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services' Kate Houston. "Overweight and obesity affects all of us -- particularly our children. It is time for all of us to work together to ensure a healthier future for our most precious resource, our children."

"I am thrilled about this wonderful and informative campaign to educate Hispanic parents and children about nutrition. The PSAs are both motivating and entertaining and I'm confident that they will inspire families throughout the nation to make the necessary changes to lead a healthier lifestyle," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of The Advertising Council.

The new Spanish-language PSAs encourage Americans to visit the campaign's website, www.MyPyramid.gov, where mothers and caregivers can obtain information and realistic tips for making and sustaining healthy choices for their children.

The new PSAs will be distributed to media outlets nationwide this month to appear in advertising time and space donated by the media.

U.S. Department of Agriculture

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, and related issues based on sound public policy, the best available science, and efficient management.

The department increases food security and reduces hunger in partnership with cooperating organizations by providing children and low-income people access to food, a healthful diet, and nutrition education in a manner that supports American agriculture and inspires public confidence.

The Advertising Council

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

SOURCE Ad Council