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Dept of Health

Answer

Mr. Stinchcombe: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment his Department has made of the importance of increasing levels of physical activity among young people. [183529] Miss Melanie Johnson: In April of this year, the Department published the Chief Medical Officer's report, "At least five a week", which sets out the evidence for the health benefits of physical activity in childhood and adolescence. The report included the recommendation that: Children and young people should achieve a total of at least 60 minutes of at least moderate intensity physical activity each day. At least twice a week this should include activities to improve bone health (activities that produce high physical stresses on the bones), muscle strength and flexibility. Prevalence of activity and inactivity among children and young people is measured as part of the Health Survey for England. In 2002, the last year for which data are available, 70 per cent. of boys and 61 per cent. of girls met the recommendation. The benefits of physical activity for young people are not restricted to health. Physical activity in schools can improve academic achievement. Community sport and activity-based programmes for young people, such as "Positive Futures", can help to increase social inclusion. Between 6 May and 30 June 2004 the Government have consulted on their future physical activity programme in the "Choosing Health? Choosing Activity" document as part of the broader "Choosing Health?" consultation process. The responses will inform the preparation of the Public Health White Paper, which will be published in the autumn and will set out action to address a range of health issues including priorities for increasing physical activity in children and young people.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

183529; 423 c1319-20W

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Children Health Physical education Young people Exercise

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk