As we work on this latest report, I want it to be a transparent process. I want to invite the entertainment industry to be a part of that process. But violence is not the only health problem area I want to discuss tonight. There are other ways you can be of help. We are trying to create a balanced community health system that emphasizes health promotion, early detection, treatment, and access to quality care.
Public health is everybody's business.
There are several ways you can help us jumpstart this move. We know that a balanced community health system cannot achieve its goals unless we ensure that every child has an optimal opportunity for a healthy start in life. That requires parents who are ready to be parents, safe pregnancies, access to quality prenatal care, and safe and nurturing environments, including the absence of violence and toxins such as illicit drugs and tobacco. There have now been 28 Surgeon General reports on smoking and health since 1964. We have made progress among adults, reducing the percentage of smokers from nearly 50 percent in 1964 to about 25 percent today.