More Scottish schools to benefit from diabetes prevention project

An increasing number of school kids in Scotland are to be taught how healthy living can help protect against type 2 diabetes following the extension of a charity-run programme.
The Live For It programme is designed to tackle childhood obesity – a key risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes in adulthood – by encouraging children to adopt a more healthy lifestyle.
The project, run by Diabetes UK Scotland and Edinburgh International Science Festival, involves educational and interactive workshops that focus on healthy eating, exercise and other preventative measures.
A total of nine schools in the country are currently involved with the project but that will soon be expanded to 31 after the Scottish Government announced it will provide an extra £20,000 to help roll out the programme out across more schools.
Jane-Claire Judso, national director of Diabetes UK Scotland, said: “One third of children are overweight or obese in Scotland and the impact on the nation’s future health has never been far from the public’s attention.”
“Now with the support of the Scottish Government, we are able to bring information about leading a healthy lifestyle directly to the classroom. By working with Edinburgh International Science Festival, we are hoping to give students the skills, knowledge and enthusiasm to make decisions about how to lead a healthy life.”
Health Secretary Alex Neil commented: “Diabetes is a growing problem for Scotland as the number of people with type 2 diabetes continues to rise. That is why we must ensure that people do all that they can to help reduce their risk of developing the disease, which can bring many complications.
“This programme is a great example of how we can tackle the underlying risk factors by teaching children how healthy eating and being active can have a positive impact on their long-term health .”