Nine out of 10 people underestimate the number of calories in less-healthy items by an average of more than 600 calories
Health & Climate Change
Why it matters: Our dependence on cars doesn’t just hurt the environment—it harms our health. Autos emit toxic pollutants, like benzene and arsenic, into the air we breathe, causing asthma and lung cancer. Cars also promote a less active way of life, which contributes to the obesity epidemic. By creating a transportation system that reduces our dependence on automobiles and increases our use of public transit, walking, and biking, we will reduce toxins in the air and increase our physical activity, which will decrease our risk for obesity, asthma, and lung cancer.
How we did it: Upstream commissioned a Health Impact Assessment in 2009 to study how 11 policies related to the Governor's proposal to set specific targets for reducing the total number of miles driven in all Oregon metropolitan areas would affect the health of Oregonians, in terms of air pollution, car collisions, and their physical activity. The results were shared with legislators, government officials, and other policy makers throughout the state.
"Simply put, in the absence of a radical shift towards prevention and public health, we will not be successful in containing medical costs or empowering the health of the American people."
Get Involved
There are many ways you can help us in our effort to improve the health of all Oregonians. To find out more about what you can do, click here.