THE VALUE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND PREVENTATIVE HEALTH

Earlier this month, Health P.E.I. invited Islanders to have their say on the how the department will deliver services in the province by completing their 2020-2023 Strategic Planning survey. Submissions are being accepted until Dec. 29.

Every individual has different opinions on what priorities for health delivery should be in Prince Edward Island. The stability of our hospitals, doctor recruitment, reduced wait times, and increased support for additions and mental health are all important priorities.

When you participate in this survey, a list of Health P.E.I. priorities is available to choose from and they request selecting three of importance to you. Many will choose what they feel provides immediate answers that address current problems in 2019, but what about 20, 30, or 40 years from now? That is why I personally fear that with our current concerns for addressing health care, the option of health promotion and prevention will not hit many lists, where it should

Imagine a P.E.I. in 30 years if hospital wait times are reduced not just because of more doctors on call, but as a result of low admittance from more Islanders living healthier than we are today.

be a top-three priority for every Islander!

A report in 2008 by the World Health Organization claims that 3.2 million deaths per year are caused by insufficient physical activity, a key piece of health prevention. WHO also claims in a February 2018 report that 81 per cent of school age children globally are not active enough. Think about that! Four out of five children under 18. What will that health care budget look like in 40 years?

Health prevention is parents having children active from birth, whether it be in sport, dance or regular play. It provides a statement of awareness to the department of education to have physical education classes offered everyday for students. It provides more affordable opportunities all over P.E.I. More activity means less incentive for addictions to tobacco and drugs. Most importantly, it creates healthy Islanders for life, which significantly reduces the risk of future health concerns.

Why choose health promotion and prevention? Imagine a P.E.I. in 30 years if hospital wait times are reduced not just because of more doctors on call, but as a result of low admittance from more Islanders living healthier than we are today.

Andrew Avery (O’Leary Recreation Director),

O'Leary, P.E.I.