News

U. S. Department of Health and Human Services – Food and Drug Administration (FDA) One Health Initiative: Fat Cat? By Ashley Steel, Center for Veterinary Medicine, FDA - November 2, 2011 “We drive through 7 am gridlock to survive the monotony of our 9-to-5 jobs all to find a way to pay for life’s expenses. Sitting through crowded rush hours to meet the bottom line of modern life has become the dominant activity for some people’s bottoms, and they aren’t getting any smaller from all the use. Many of us, victims of hurry up and wait, just sit in our office cubicles day after very long day. And through it all, our furry little friends sit at home waiting lethargically for our return. Today’s fast-paced, sedentary lifestyle makes it harder for people and their pets to lead healthy lives. So, with healthful living for all in mind, a group of physicians, veterinarians, and other health professionals are working to “…promote, improve and defend the health and well-being of all species….” This effort, known as the One Health Initiative1, 2 is endorsed by major medical associations such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and is leading the way toward a healthier world. People and animals are vulnerable to many diseases, some related to genetics and some to their own behavior. Certain diseases even impact multiple species. Obesity is a prime example of a medical condition that affects a variety of species, especially when the species share similar habits and environments. ...” Please read complete article: http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/ResourcesforYou/AnimalHealthLiteracy/ucm278139.htm