While the MAHA strategy proposes shifting upstream to focus on four potential drivers of health (diet, chemical exposure, lack of physical activity and chronic stress, and overmedicalization), it narrows the chronic-disease framework. It does not significantly address other social determinants of health such as housing, transportation, community safety, environmental injustices, and institutional racism, ignoring structural inequities. It also diverts attention from other significant health issues, such as injury prevention and maternal and child health.
Executive Office of the President - White House Office
A directive issued by the President that manages operations of the federal government. Executive orders have the force of law but must align with existing statutes and constitutional authority.
Who It Impacts: Federal agencies and employees, directing them on how to implement laws or carry out government functions. Executive orders can also influence businesses and individuals when they relate to issues like immigration, trade, or labor policies.
Who Is Not Impacted: Private citizens and businesses do not have to directly follow an executive order unless it leads to regulations or policies that apply to them. For example, an executive order directing federal agencies to increase renewable energy use does not mandate action from private companies, but it may influence policy shifts that eventually affect them.
Date Enacted
February 13, 2025
Last Updated
December 10, 2025
Policy Type
Food & Nutrition
Healthcare Delivery, Services & Quality
Public Health
Children and Families
Maternal Health
Health and Disability
Summary
EO 14212 established the MAHA Commission to address the prevalence of chronic disease, especially childhood chronic disease, by examining food, chemicals, medications, technology use, and other lifestyle factors. MAHA is commissioned to conduct an assessment to identify the scope and drivers of childhood chronic disease and develop a federal action plan focused on nutrition, environmental factors, physical inactivity, stress, and medication usage.
Impact Analysis
Legal Challenges
N/A
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