DoH announces launch of physical activity initiative

In conjunction with NHS London and Natural England, the Department of Health (DoH) has announced the launch of a physical activity programme to encourage adults who lead sedentary lifestyles to engage in more physical activity to boost their heath.

The scheme will initially be trialled at five primary care trusts in London – in Haringey, Islington, Southwark, Tower Hamlets and Wandsworth – and will involve the use of a GP Physical Activity Questionnaire and setting of activity goals to help individuals beneficially alter their behaviour.

Patients electing to join the scheme will be given a special pack that includes a personalised exercise plan, a map of nearby open spaces and information on suitable local activities together with advice on diet and exercise.

Dawn Primarolo, public health minister, said: “This project will give inactive patients the boost they need to improve their fitness and take that first step towards a healthy, active lifestyle.”

“Just making a small increase in activity levels can make a big difference to your overall physical well-being.”

She added that individuals who are physically active are 50 per cent less likely to be at risk of coronary heart disease, cancer, diabetes and stroke.

In April 2007, the Department of Health announced the launch of an obesity toolkit to help Britons in their attempts to boost their health, with a focus on assistance and advice, rather than “telling people what to do”.