Among primary school children in Hong Kong, after a progressive increase in the rate of overweight or obesity from 16.4% in 1996 to 19.4% in 2006, we observe a gradual but sustain decline since 2009.
To cope with the rising tide of various chronic diseases associated with obesity, we adopt a life-course approach and population-based strategies. We have been promoting healthy lifestyle in different settings. School is an important setting for our health promotion efforts against unhealthy diet.
The EatSmart@school.hk was launched in school year 2006/07 among primary school students. Key objectives of the Campaign are to raise public awareness and concern about healthy eating among children, and to create an environment that is conducive to healthy eating in schools and the community.
The program adopts a comprehensive strategy: building a supportive environment; incorporating research & evaluation; promoting education & empowerment; developing publicity & advocacy; and alliance building.
A Steering Committee including related government organizations, professional associations (including HKASO), education sectors, committee on Home-School cooperation and Radio Television Hong Kong was formed to overlook the continuous development of the program. Core activities implemented since 2006 include: Nutritional Guidelines on Lunch for Students; Nutritional Guidelines on Snacks for Students; Nutrition Training Workshops for School Staff; Nutritional Cooking Training Workshops for Chefs; Handbook of Selection of Lunch Suppliers; School lunch suppliers database and “EatSmart School Accreditation Scheme”.
The program received a Special Recognition Award from the Western Pacific Regional Office of the World Health Organization (WHO) as a contribution to the scaling-up of healthy cities in October 2012.