We know that Malta’s children are the fattest in Europe and this means they will suffer cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure, prediabetes, bone and joint problems, sleep apnea and social and psychological problems such as stigmatisation and poor self-esteem in their youth.

Their futures hold increased risks for adult health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, several types of cancer, and osteoarthritis. Who cares? What is so frustrating is that, while we can do something about it, not enough change is being made. Gozo is such a small place; it should be possible to bring about change quickly.

All schools need to set the example. I don’t know if people are aware that much of the fundraising in schools involves selling junk food to kids: pastizzi and sausage rolls on tombla days, pizza day, popcorn day and bake sales. On a personal note, I have been volunteering in a government school in Gozo, serving on the school council for several years. I have three children of my own.

For the previous two years I volunteered teaching an extra PE lesson each week for each class. I am frustrated by the total lack of understanding when it comes to encouraging kids to be healthy. Buses are used in situations where children could go on foot. There are risks in life but a balanced approach can be taken: ask parents to chaperon on walks. Long term it isn’t really ‘safer’ to give children snacks full of saturated fat and put them on a bus when they could walk. What could schools do to help kids be healthier?

I have heard it takes 28 days to stop or start a habit. Have a contest with a prize for the kid in each class who walks or rides a bike to school the most days in a month.

Another contest could be for bringing fruit or vegetables in their lunch the most days in a month.

Why not have fundraising activities that are fun and active or creative, that don’t involve food?

Schools need to do their part to encourage students to make healthy choices. As a community we can do things together such as exercising and being outdoors.

Families need to spend more time with their kids and friends enjoying the outdoors together.