EDITORIAL
As if to compound the worst about ‘sweet’ drinks, a recent study from Boston University School of Medicine has identified that they may cause brain shrinkage and poor memory recall. Notwithstanding their link to diabetes and high sugar content, the call has long been made to increase the taxes not just on those products, but on foods with high salt and fat content.
It is symptomatic of a very real challenge among adults and children – how does a government burdened with high health costs try to save a populace from itself? Advertisements have been promoted on state television and other media, not to mention the role of private doctors who try their best to sway patients to diet, exercise and moderation of foods.
One can argue that persons have a right to be able to choose what they wish to purchase, as it is their private currency to spend freely. However, it becomes a national problem when people are sickened at young ages by non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that have traditionally affected older persons, such as strokes, heart conditions or high cholesterol. It is therefore no surprise that our efforts have landed us on a big list, literally. According to the CIA World Factbook, with data compiled from 2008, Barbados sits 14th on a list of most obese nations among adults.
Enough is enough. It is beyond time to tackle this issue from a multi-sectoral approach, particularly where our children are concerned. It is not too much of a stretch to see how children can inherit the unhealthy food and beverage choices from the adults around them. Some schools have instituted fruit days or have forbidden children bringing unhealthy snacks to school. However, we would be best served examining other options.
Vendors and school canteens are vital in the fight against unhealthy eating; however the reality is they are individuals or contracted entities who are hoping to make a profit as business persons. Perhaps a compromise of sorts could be reached, where for several days during the school week, they are encouraged to provide indigenous or healthier options for students.
In addition, physical education seems to dwindle at the secondary school level. We agree heartily with persons who have suggested that physical education be compulsory throughout the secondary schoolchild’s tenure. To that we would add that more interesting activities beyond the usual running or the usual sports should be added to the curriculum to engage children. For example, in consultation with local gyms and trainers, who could adopt a school in their environs, a more interesting and fun roster can be instituted, such as dancercise or boxing.
Above all, adults have to be roped into the exercises. While private groups have been staging run/walks more regularly than ever, that is still a voluntary activity that usually attracts those in relatively good fitness health. Special sessions that are free of condemnation and are private could be convened for obese persons who may fear embarrassment because of their weight.
Regardless of what is done, we are at crisis point with our national health. Some drastic activities must be implemented sooner rather than later if we are to win the fight against NCDs and poor, unhealthy lifestyles.