A scientists uses a microscope in a lab.

Several years ago, I wrote a post asking the then-Secretary of Education to “make America healthy again.” It was an obvious wordplay on a popular campaign slogan at the time.

In hindsight, those words have taken on new meaning for me. I wasn’t clear enough in expressing the critical idea that we cannot make America healthy again without science. Instinct and good intentions alone are not enough to tackle the complex health challenges we face, especially when we lack expertise in scientific fields.

Evidence-based, peer-reviewed science truly matters. Facts and expertise must guide opinions and well-meaning intentions. Intelligence and experience are crucial to moving forward effectively. Regardless of personal views, it’s vital to approach public health with evidence-based solutions.

One reason our country faces significant health challenges is the influence of marketing on nutrition decisions. Each year, food, beverage, and restaurant companies spend billions of dollars advertising fast food, sugary drinks, and processed snacks—approximately $2 billion of that is specifically directed at children. These campaigns, designed to appeal to kids through TV and digital platforms, shape dietary preferences and contribute to broader public health issues.

But it’s not just about food choices or exercise. Science can guide us in so many other areas, from addressing obesity to understanding the environmental factors impacting health. For example, science highlighted the links between poor nutrition, obesity, and chronic disease.

Every day, lives are saved through the work of scientists. Their contributions, from understanding viruses to ensuring safe drinking water, have had a profound impact on human health. We owe them immense gratitude for their dedication and the knowledge they bring to solving the challenges we face.

Moving forward, we must ensure that experts and evidence-based science guide our public health policies and practices. Science is not optional—it is essential to creating a healthier future for all.