THE Heart Foundation of Jamaica (HFJ) says the theme for this year’s World Obesity Day reflects the reality that obesity affects people across every country, community and stage of life, and is underscoring the urgent need for systemic action to create healthier environments to protect future generations.

World Obesity Day is observed today, March 4, under the theme ‘8 Billion Reasons to Act on Obesity’.

“In Jamaica, obesity remains a serious and growing public health concern. The HFJ notes that rising rates of overweight and obesity among both adults and children are closely linked to the country’s high burden of non-communicable diseases including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension and certain cancers, which place a significant strain on our health system,“ the foundation said in a news release.

The HFJ said it is cognisant that effective public health policies are critical tools in addressing obesity, and are among the most impactful measures, and highlighted Jamaica’s recent decision to levy a Special Consumption Tax (SCT) on non-alcoholic sweetened beverages as an example.

“These drinks are a major source of empty, excess calories and added sugars in the Jamaican diet, particularly among children and adolescents,” it said.

“By discouraging the purchase of sweetened beverages and encouraging healthier alternatives such as water, this tax can contribute to a reduction in overall caloric intake and help lower obesity rates over time. As such, the HFJ continues to advocate for strong implementation, monitoring, and public education to maximise the benefits of this measure.”

The HFJ said it also supports food and beverage reformulation as a key systems-level response to obesity, and urged manufacturers to reduce excessive sugars, salt and unhealthy fats in commonly consumed products.

“When combined with fiscal measures and nutrition standards, reformulation can significantly improve population diets without relying solely on individual behaviour change,” the HFJ said.

The foundation said the recently approved School Nutrition Policy also plays an important role in shaping lifelong healthy habits and addressing the ongoing obesity crisis.

”Schools play a vital role in influencing what our children eat and drink on a daily basis. By setting standards that limit the availability of foods high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, and promoting balanced meals, fruits, vegetables, and water, this creates an environment that supports the healthy growth and development of our children.“

It said the SCT should form a part of a suite of policies used to address obesity and reduce the national burden of NCDs, as well as improve the quality of life for Jamaicans.

“This co-ordinated, multi-sectoral approach should include strong nutrition policies and regulations; clear evidence-based front-of-package warning labels to help consumers make healthier choices; public awareness campaigns promoting healthy diets and physical activity; greater access to affordable, nutritious foods in all communities; and safe spaces that encourage active living,” the foundation said.

“The foundation therefore calls on government, schools, the private sector, civil society, and every Jamaican to play their part in creating a healthier nation, asking them to begin taking practical steps toward healthier lifestyles — by reducing sweetened drink consumption, eating more fresh and minimally processed foods, preparing meals at home, and engaging in regular physical activity.”