Province Highlights Commitment to Health Promotion

HEALTH PROMOTION -Province Highlights Commitment to Health Promotion

Legislation was introduced in the House of Assembly today, April 15, that underscores government's commitment to improving the long-term health and well-being of Nova Scotians.

An Act to Establish the Office of Health Promotion gives the office responsibility for matters related to health promotion and general preventative health measures in the areas of addiction prevention, tobacco control, physical activity, healthy eating, healthy sexuality and injury prevention.

"Nova Scotia has some of the country's poorest health statistics. Trends in inactivity and obesity, especially among children, warn that we may be raising a generation of young people that is less healthy than our own," said Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald. "We feel so strongly about our commitment to improving the health of children, families, and communities that we believe it should be firmly established in legislation."

The Office of Health Promotion was created in December 2002 through an order-in-council. It includes the former Sport and Recreation Commission and some aspects of population health previously under the mandate of the Department of Health.

The past year has been a growth year that included hiring core staff and developing a strategic plan. The areas outlined in the legislation are based on a review of existing work, gaps and priorities and stakeholder consultation. They address some of the key risk factors in chronic disease, disability and premature death.

"We're building a strong foundation and putting the right resources in place so we can make a difference in the health of Nova Scotians, especially children and youth," said Mr. MacDonald. "We know the investments we make now are a down payment on our children's health, and on the future prosperity of this province."

The minister said the office will work with many partners, including other government departments and health and community groups, to reduce the province's heavy burden of disease and injury and to help Nova Scotians live longer, healthier, more productive lives.