HOUSTON -- Mayor Bill White is calling on Houstonians to enter the 50 Million Pound Challenge, KPRC Local 2 reported.

Many Houstonians are already taking the right steps to get fit and lose weight, but statistics show that more need to get on track.

"Houstonians, all people in our region, could be healthier, lead a better life, if they take personal responsibility for their own wellness," White said.

Dr. Ian Smith is leading the challenge for Houstonians to join other Americans in an effort to lose 50 million pounds.

"The center of any health care reform is dealing with weight issues," Smith said. "Obesity kills more 300,000 people a year."

Smith said even a small amount of weight loss can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and some forms of cancer.

"Just small things ... walking, maybe eating a little better, having family meal time like we don't do anymore," Smith said. "Sit down and turn off the cell phones and BlackBerrys. Let's reinvest in ourselves because we are our greatest asset."

The challenge kicks off with a walk at Emancipation Park at 5 p.m. Saturday.