Ads that mock health habits are offensive

I must say it is with feelings of consternation that I take the time to submit this communication. As a board-certified family practice physician of 22 years, I have been pushed to the brink by the inappropriate advertising I have seen on billboards from the Edward-Elmhurst hospital system.

My objective in my health service career has always been a preventative approach, yet I find ads such as "street meats" and too many "latte grandes" purely absurd and actually offensive. Taking care of your health is not funny.

As a "NEW START" (Nutrition, Exercise, Water, Sun, Temperance, Air, Rest and Trust) physician, I recognize these as the foundational principles for optimum health results.

I educate my patients on developing good health habits and choices, not making a joke out of their poor choices. The noblest profession of the physician is to educate patients, not to mock or ridicule them.

Barbara R. Bellar

Oakbrook Terrace