The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released a series of recommendations on how to improve health through transportation policy. The report is a resounding endorsement of the current stance of the U.S. Department of Transportation and of local and national advocacy groups and government agencies that are calling for an increased focus on active transportation.
The CDC points out that our current transportation system is designed solely to move people and goods efficiently, but that, “there is a growing awareness across communities that transportation systems impact quality of life and health.”
In their rationale for making the policy recommendations, the CDC writes (emphasis mine):
“Physical activity and active transportation have declined compared to previous generations. The lack of physical activity is a major contributor to the steady rise in rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and other chronic health conditions in the United States.”
The report goes into detail on eight specific recommendations, including Promote Active Transportation and Encourage Healthy Community Design.
Read the full report on the CDC’s website.