Media Release
02 April 2004
Something Must Be Done About Obesity
The release today of the Ministry of Health report identifying that bad diet combined with physical inactivity was the
number one cause of death in New Zealand is a wake-up call for the Government that more must be done to tackle this
growing problem.
“This is urgent and must be dealt with immediately before we have a nation of overweight people who will rely heavily on
the health system,” said health spokesperson, Barbara Stewart.
“A national education programme is needed urgently to fight against an epidemic of obesity.
“It must start with parents. Children eat what their parents eat so it time to educate parents about the importance of a
healthy diet and daily exercise.
“The constant barrage of advertisements for fast food and sweets aimed at children is also a problem that needs to be
addressed.
“Use television and other media outlets to educate people and offer appealing healthy options as an alternative to fast
food.
“People cannot be forced not to eat fast food but they can be well educated about the effects of fast food and lack of
exercise,” said Mrs Stewart.
ENDS