Fit Futures will help halt increase in obesity here, says HPA
The Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland (HPA) voiced its support for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety’s commitment to Fit Futures, the strategy which puts the spotlight on tackling the causes of overweight and obesity among children and young people here.
Dr Brian Gaffney, Chief Executive of the HPA, said: “We know there is a serious weight problem in Northern Ireland among our children and young people. In Primary One, 14% of boys are overweight and almost a further 5% are obese, while almost 20% girls are overweight and almost a further 7% are obese.¹ Eating patterns developed during childhood tend to be continued into adulthood and therefore have lifelong consequences. Research carried out by the HPA revealed that one in six children do not eat any fruit or vegetables on a typical day, so encouraging good eating habits is an essential message for the early years.² Poor nutrition during childhood and adolescence is associated with bad oral health and an increased risk of obesity, hypertension, diabetes and coronary heart disease.
“Research also shows that children in Northern Ireland are becoming increasingly inactive for a number of reasons, including the increase in computer games, interactive TV games, DVDs, television in bedrooms and a lack of safe outdoor play space. Today most children are being driven to and from school instead of walking so again they are missing out on an opportunity to be active. Unhealthy eating patterns combined with inactive lifestyles present a real threat to the physical and emotional wellbeing of children and young people here.
“Fit Futures is a key priority for all government departments and agencies and we are pleased the initiative is being pushed forward into the final stages of consultation. To tackle this health concern, action will be required on all fronts which includes supporting the early years, creating healthy schools and encouraging the development of healthy communities.”
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¹ Analysis of data from the Northern Ireland child health system on the height and weight of children in Primary One. Unpublished. Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.
² Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland. Eating for health? A survey of eating habits among children and young people in Northern Ireland. Belfast: The Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland, 2001.
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