On World Obesity Day, a press conference was held featuring Health and Active Ageing Minister Jo Etienne Abela and Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing Malcolm Paul Agius Galea.
They discussed several initiatives aimed at tackling obesity in the country, with estimates suggesting over 250,000 individuals affected by overweight and obesity. Efforts are ongoing to provide necessary assistance, with the government already offering various services tailored to individuals suffering from obesity, and plans for further development of specialized services are in progress. Additionally, work is underway to formulate a national strategy to effectively address this growing challenge.
Minister Jo Etienne Abela emphasized the importance of increasing awareness about obesity globally. He highlighted the widespread impact of obesity across all age groups and stressed the significance of preventive measures, particularly in relation to diabetes. He underscored the need for continued investment in awareness campaigns and preventive measures.
Parliamentary Secretary Malcolm Paul Agius Galea noted the impact of obesity on the elderly, leading to various health issues. He stressed the importance of investing in nutritional education for both older adults and younger generations, highlighting the potential for even small dietary changes to improve overall health.
Health Superintendent Prof. Charmaine Gauci emphasized the global scale of the obesity challenge and Malta’s high rates of overweight and obesity. She stressed the crucial role of prevention in addressing this issue.
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