Obesity Network launched by Northern Trust

The Managed Obesity Network represents a significant milestone for the Trust and other organisations in tackling the significant obesity problem in the Province.

With more than 60% of adults and 25% of children in Northern Ireland either overweight or obese, finding effective answers to the problem represents an urgent challenge.

Obesity has a significant impact, not only on individual health, but also on society and the economy. There is a cost to the Health Service in dealing with obesity related conditions.

The Department of Health's Investing for Health Strategy in 2002 estimated that by 2010 the cost of obesity to the Northern Ireland economy could exceed 500 million per year.

While managed networks have already been shown to be successful in improving services for other chronic conditions, this new approach by the Trust and its partners represents an innovative response to preventing and tackling obesity.

At the heart of the Managed Obesity Network approach is the 'networking' or joining up of the range of existing services and activities relevant to obesity prevention and reduction.

Organisations and groups in the Network are supported to work together and have better access to information on effective approaches and promotes best practice. Those involved will be better informed about other relevant services where there may be potential for joint working, or opportunities to co-operate with others to achieve better results.

The Managed Obesity Network will develop over the coming months and will continue to be a priority area of work for the Trust.

Speaking after the launch Dr Cheryl Flanagan, Managed Obesity Network Co-ordinator said: " This launch was a hugely successful event which has demonstrated a solid foundation to build on.

"Regional and local charities are very keen to be involved in the partnership. There is a lot of enthusiasm and optimism to support this project".

More information on the Managed Obesity Network can be obtained from [email protected] or by telephoning 028 2563 5573.