Childhood Obesity is an Epidemic in Canada and the Maritimes…
H2K stands for “Heart Healthy Kids” (2 H’s, 1 K!) and is a program designed by the Maritime Heart Center to improve the heart healthy habits of our children and youth.
It’s becoming increasingly clear that childhood obesity is becoming and epidemic… in Canada and right here on our doorstep in the Maritimes. The issue is outlined in more detail in an excellent article in ‘Time Magazine’.
The article may focus on the USA, but the statistics below show Canada as having a problem of the same magnitude.
Childhood physical inactivity causes overweight and obesity, high blood pressure, type II diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Childhood physical inactivity is also related to emotional and behavioral problems and low self-esteem.
On the other hand, being physically active in childhood is related to better behavior and school performance, and increased self-esteem, self-image, and self-confidence. Physical activity also helps with the maintenance of a healthy body weight and prevention of the above diseases.
Some Shocking Statistics:
* Only 7% of Canadian children and youth meet recommended guidelines for physical activity.
* 1/3rd of Canadian children and youth are overweight or obese.
* Canadian children get an average of 6 hours per day in screen-time (TV, movies, video games, internet).
* In the HRM, the combination of obesity and physical inactivity costs $16 million and causes 200 premature deaths
annually.
* Physical Health and Education Canada recommends schools offer 30 minutes of physical education for all students
PER DAY; however in Nova Scotia, most elementary schools receive only two 30 minute periods of physical education weekly.
* In adulthood, 1 in 3 people will die of a heart-related condition.
Goals of the H2K program:
- Change the current sedentary culture of our youth and children.
- Educate and mentor children and their caregivers about modifiable risk factors for heart disease.
- Give children and their families the opportunity and tools to lead a heart-healthier lifestyle.
Next: An overview of the H2k Program.
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