Chair of the AMA Public Health Committee, Dr John Gullotta, said today that the review of children’s television standards by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) should lead to a ban on junk food advertising in children’s TV viewing times.
Dr Gullotta said the AMA will be making a submission to the ACMA review and he urged all groups concerned with child health and obesity to do the same.“A ban on junk food advertising to kids must be a priority of the ACMA review,” Dr Gullotta said.
“Childhood obesity is one of the greatest health risks in Australia today.
“It causes a significant burden on the health system and puts our children at risk of a number of health complications, including diabetes.
“Banning junk food ads during kids’ viewing times is an easy and cost-effective way to help kids get a healthier start in life.”
The ACMA issues paper released this week discusses amending children’s television standards to specifically address the issue of food advertising to children.
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Source-AMA
SRM/M