National Aboriginal Diabetes Awareness Day brings new Fitness Challenge from AFN to all First Nations
AFN press release
Assembly of First Nations launching fitness challenge
OTTAWA, May 2 /CNW Telbec/ - On National Aboriginal Diabetes Awareness Day, the Assembly of First Nations is announcing that it will launch a fitness challenge, this summer, as part of an initiative to encourage healthy lifestyles.
This year, the challenge is asking Regional Chiefs, Chiefs, Band Councillors and officer workers to think of new ways to incorporate fitness activities and healthy food choices into their daily lives. Research shows there is a link between healthy lifestyles and lowering the risk of, and complication with, diabetes.
According to the Regional Health Survey (RHS) the prevalence of diabetes among First Nations adults is nearly four times greater than general Canadian population. The general prevalence of diabetes in First Nation adults is 19.7%. Nearly nine out of ten First Nation adults report adverse consequences related to their diabetes, including vision problems, problems with legs and feet, kidney function and infection, and heart problems.
The AFN is targeting strategies to improve the health of those who have, or are at risk for diabetes and is committed to playing a key and unique leadership role in building healthy First Nation communities, as recommended by the National First Nations Diabetes Working Group at its strategic planning meeting held in February 2008.
At the end of the initiative prizes will be awarded to individuals who make improvements in fitness.
A prize will also be presented to recognize a First Nation that already has a program in place to encourage healthy lifestyles in the workplace. Many First Nations communities are actively engaged in a number of initiatives to inspire healthy lifestyles choices in their communities. The AFN, for example, has encouraged healthy lifestyle initiatives in its offices since 2005, with an annual 10,000 steps pedometer challenge.
More information will be made available on the AFN website when the challenge is officially launched in July.
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/For further information: Karyn Pugliese, Health Communications, (613) 292-1877, kpugliese@afn.ca/