Trump Establishes “Make America Healthy Again” Commission to Address Chronic Disease Crisis

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order establishing the “Make America Healthy Again Commission” in an effort to combat rising rates of chronic disease, particularly among children. Citing alarming statistics on obesity, mental illness, and other health conditions, the order directs federal agencies to focus on reversing chronic illness trends and ensuring greater transparency in health research. The newly formed commission, chaired by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, will study contributing factors and propose solutions to improve public health outcomes.

According to the executive order, chronic diseases and mental health conditions are a growing burden on the U.S. healthcare system, accounting for 90% of the country’s $4.5 trillion in annual healthcare expenditures. The order points to a significant rise in conditions such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, obesity, and asthma compared to other developed nations. Additionally, it highlights concerns over medication overuse, environmental factors, and dietary habits as potential contributors to declining health. A particular emphasis is placed on the health of American children, with reports indicating rising rates of prediabetes, fatty liver disease, and other chronic conditions.

The commission’s primary objective will be to assess the childhood chronic disease crisis and identify possible contributing factors, including nutrition, environmental exposures, medical treatments, and government policies. Within 100 days, the commission is expected to deliver a “Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment” to the president, detailing health trends, international comparisons, and the potential risks of certain medications and exposures. A subsequent strategy report, due within 180 days, will recommend structural changes to federal health initiatives aimed at reversing these trends.

The commission will include representatives from multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Agriculture, Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Environmental Protection Agency. It will also work with experts in public health and government accountability to evaluate existing programs, increase transparency in health research, and ensure that federal health policies promote prevention rather than just disease management. Public hearings and expert consultations may be held to gather additional insights.

The executive order also directs agencies to prioritize research on the root causes of chronic disease, support farmers in improving food quality, and expand healthcare options that encourage preventive care. The administration’s approach emphasizes reducing reliance on medication and addressing underlying health determinants through lifestyle and policy changes. The commission’s findings will inform future government health initiatives, with the potential for continued revisions based on additional research and recommendations.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors.

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