Obesity program funding boost ‘tremendous’

JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
GEELONG anti-obesity programs have received a “tremendous” funding boost according to a leading researcher.
Deakin University’s Professor Boyd Swinburn said the joint federal and state government $100 million funding would make a significant impact in the region.
“It represents a substantial amount and really boosts Geelong’s efforts,” he said.
Prof Swinburn leads a research program in the area of obesity prevention, especially in childhood and adolescence.
He oversees two local community-based obesity prevention projects, the Romp and Chomp program targeted at the one to five age group and It’s Your Move program aimed at 12 to 18 year olds.
“Geelong is one of the biggest areas which adds to the complexity, but has a long tradition of these kinds of programs.
“This funding builds on Geelong’s track record of being a leader in this area.”
State health minister David Davis said the preventative health funding was an Australian first tailored health plan.
Mr Davis said the Prevention Community Model – an obesity and chronic disease prevention plan – would benefit 1.3 million people across 14 municipalities in Victoria.
He said detailed demographic and health data from the Victorian Population Health Survey would be used to determine Geelong’s key health challenges.
“There will be a range of programs to ensure healthy choices are easy for individuals, families and communities, and each of the communities will have a vital role in determining what best suits their local needs,” Mr Davis said.
“There will be a focus on local programs specifically designed to improve children’s health and wellbeing.
“Programs will also target adults who have tapered off their health and fitness, and encourage them to take the steps needed to restore their lifestyle and wellbeing.”