THE Western Trust Health Improvement, Equality and Involvement Department are working in partnership with the Public Health Agency to promote the Choose to Live Better Obesity Prevention Campaign 2019.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the dangers of obesity on our overall health and wellbeing alongside promoting practical ways to lead a healthier lifestyle. It will run from Monday 7 – Sunday 13 January 2019.
Obesity is one of the most important public health challenges in Northern Ireland with 64% of our population currently overweight or obese (Health Survey for Northern Ireland 2017/18). It is therefore crucial to continue raising awareness in an effort to challenge attitudes and behaviours.
Zoe Fletcher, Western Trust Project Lead Dietitian for the Community Food and Nutrition Team commented: “More than one in two adults in Northern Ireland are now overweight or obese, but many people don’t even realise that they fall into this category and are putting their health at risk.
“Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing heart disease, some cancers and type 2 diabetes.
“This campaign aims to encourage individuals to make small, realistic lifestyle changes that will help them maintain a healthy weight.
“Small changes are easier to make and can add up to make a big difference.
“For example, having smaller portions, swapping to healthier options and going for a walk instead of watching TV.
“Every small step will help people keep a healthy weight and improve their health.
“By promoting awareness of the campaign message that an extra 100 calories a day can lead to 10lbs of weight gain each year, we hope to give people the tools and encouragement to make healthier choices to help prevent against obesity.”
For resources to support the campaign in your community or workplace please contact the Health Improvement, Equality and Involvement Department on T: (028) 71865127 or email: [email protected].
Tags: