The World Health Organization has recognized
obesity as a global epidemic. There are more than one billion
overweight adults worldwide and childhood obesity levels are at
an all-time high in Canada. Obesity accounts for two to six per
cent of total health care costs. However, the true costs are
undoubtedly much greater as not all obesity-related conditions
are included in the calculations.
The principal causes of the accelerating
obesity problem are sedentary lifestyles and high-fat,
energy-dense diets. Urbanization, modernization, economic
growth and the globalization of food markets are just some of
the forces thought to underlie the obesity epidemic.
Prevention programs aimed at promoting
healthy lifestyles, including good nutrition, increasing
physical activity, and behavioural change are essential.
The Sudbury & District Health Unit
provides our community with a variety of programs, that support
these healthy lifestyle choices.
The new Healthy Measures program offers women
tips on how to incorporate good nutrition, physical activity
and self-esteem into their busy lifestyles. The program asks
women to throw out their scales and measuring tapes and to
start measuring themselves in healthier ways.
We encourage you to join our efforts to
combat obesity in our community by attending the June 9 and 10
forum Healthy People for a Healthier
Tomorrow.
For additional information, contact the
Sudbury & District Health Unit's Healthy Weights Action
Team at 522-9200, ext 257 or visit
www.sdhu.com
.
Carol Coffyn
Healthy Weights Action Team