Residents are set to receive a ‘fakeaway’ leaflet through their letterboxes from tomorrow.
On first glance, the colourful flyer appears to be a takeaway menu but on closer inspection, suggests some of the key reasons why children in Greater Manchester could be at risk of becoming overweight or obese.
NHS Greater Manchester has launched its latest initiative to uncover the real truth behind childhood obesity across the city’s boroughs.
With four in children classed overweight or obese by the time they reach Year 6 in Greater Manchester, the NHS want to understand the real reasons why this is the case.
Alongside the pamphlets, locals will also spot the hard-hitting social graphics and campaign billboards across the city.
The images are a play on restrictions that might affect childhood obesity, for example access to green spaces, cost-of-living and easy access to takeaway food.
Jane Pilkington, director of population health at NHS Greater Manchester, says: “The impacts of childhood obesity last all too predictably through life – a child who is obese at aged 5 and 10 is more likely to be obese as an adult and therefore will experience health complications.
“Nowhere is this more apparent than in urban areas across our city-region which have a high density of fast-food outlets, where residents are saturated with junk food ads. Healthy food choices can be up to three times more expensive than unhealthy and less nutritious options.
“And that’s why this work is so important – it’s time for an honest look at childhood obesity in Greater Manchester, starting with sharing this survey far and wide and giving as many people as possible, the chance to have their say.”
To take part in the survey, visit www.therealpicture.org.