Vol. 525 No. 2
455 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there has been an increase in the number of teenagers with type two diabetes, a condition which is attributable to sedentary lifestyles and lower levels of physical activity; and the way in which he will deal with this issue. [24076/00]
There is concern throughout the developed world about the increase in adult onset – type two – diabetes mellitus. The risk of this type of diabetes is increased in those who are overweight or obese. Diabetes is of concern because it carries a greatly increased risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition to treatment for any symptoms of diabetes, these patients benefit from attention to lifestyle and to risk factors for heart disease. This includes avoidance of smoking, treatment of raised blood pressure and raised levels of cholesterol in the blood, as well as weight reduction and regular physical activity.
From a public health perspective, it is desirable to prevent the onset of this type of diabetes, by reducing the extent to which people gain weight as they grow older. This starts with attention to eating and physical activity habits among young people.
The survey of lifestyle, attitudes and nutrition – SLÁN – and Irish health behaviour in school-aged children – HBSC – survey provides data on the weight and height of young people as well as their level of physical activity. The results show that 8% of all children reported being on a weight reducing diet and an additional 23% reported that they needed to lose weight. While two thirds of younger boys reported participating in vigorous exercise four or more times a week this had declined to just over half of all boys in all social classes in the 15-17 year age group. A similar pattern was observed with girls, but in the 15-17 year age group only one in four reported this level of activity.
The strategic aim of the new health promotion strategy in relation to exercise is to increase participation in regular, moderate physical activity. Health promotion initiatives targeting a reduction in heart related disease is a central focus of "Building Healthier Hearts"; the report of the cardiovascular health strategy group. In this regard, awareness campaigns highlighting the lifestyle risk factors associated with heart related diseases, as well as other diseases, and associated activities are being undertaken nationwide.
Healthy eating, regular physical activity and not smoking are the three main things young people can do to reduce their cardiovascular risk profile. In addition, habits learned at a young age provide a basis for a healthy adulthood. This includes the prevention of weight gain and the associated risks of developing type two diabetes when older.
