Originally scheduled to take place in the European Parliament, the launch of the Obesity Policy Engagement Network – OPEN EU was presented online on March 4th, World Obesity Day, due to the covid-19 outbreak. People from all over Europe tuned in to the livestream to learn more about the initiative and about how to tackle obesity.
With the number of obese people continuing to rise in many parts of the world, it is clear that tackling obesity is complex and requires a comprehensive and sustained effort. Obesity is a serious health issue, being a major risk factor for various noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and stroke, and various forms of cancer.
One of the key actions in reducing obesity levels is of course the promotion of an active, healthy lifestyle. Not an easy challenge, but one that EuropeActive works toward on a daily basis together with its partners with activities such as the #LetsBeactive campaign and project, as well as the National Fitness Day for Europe project.