The "Weight of Health" programme, which has taken place on all beaches throughout the country, starts Wednesday in the Azores with an initiative that will be held on Milícias Beach, São Miguel Island. It is organised by the Regional Directorate for Health in partnership with the Directorate General of Health.

 This health education activity aims to help people understanding obesity as a disease that, if not treated, can trigger other serious diseases. Therefore, it will raise the awareness of people for the risks of obesity and being overweight, highlighting the importance of prevention and treatment.

 Given its importance, the Regional Directorate for Health has joined the "Weight of Health" programme insofar as this initiative will contribute to improving the health of the Azorean population, through the awareness of obesity as a disease and the importance of the role of prevention and treatment," said the Regional Director for Health.

 João Soares stressed that the combat and prevention of obesity are two of the key measures that make up the Regional Health Programme 2014-2016, taking into consideration its consequences in health and in the quality of life.

 "The Azorean Government has decided to join this initiative, being another strategy that contributes to the prevention of obesity in the Azores," said the Regional Director. The government official added that this is one of the most important public health issues nationwide. The resolution of this problem "requires a concerted strategy, including the promotion of healthy eating habits and a more active life."

 An initiative promoted by Keypoint, the Weight of Health" programme will take place Wednesday and Thursday, August 26 and 27, on Milícias Beach in Ponta Delgada. It will also be held on Santa Bárbara Beach in Ribeira Grande on August 28 and 29.