Letter: Drink ban will raise awareness

The highly contentious New York City sugary drink ban ["Gulp! NYC bans sale of large, sugar drink," News, Sept. 14] serves a greater purpose. New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and the city's health board are raising awareness, informing individuals, fostering dialogue and possibly compelling self-examination among consumers. The topic is fodder for water-cooler conversations as individuals argue, challenge or defend the city's ban.

In itself, the ban is not a solution to obesity. It will be effective only when combined with a variety of other environmental and educational strategies that target multiple domains, including school, community and family settings.

Kelly Devito

Editor's note: The writer is the health policy coordinator for Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess county schools.