Obésité : l’argent joue un rôle

"In the day after the World Day for the eradication of poverty, it is important to recall the connection between obesity and poverty. In fact, due to a lack of financial means, many European households no longer have access to highly nutritious food products such as quality milk, fruit and vegetables. That is why Europe could contribute, by a reform of the CAP, in support of the supply of quality fruit and vegetables at more affordable prices," said MEP Frédérique Ries, author of a recent parliamentary report on promoting healthy eating and physical activity.

"Some foods are too expensive for low-income people in society. They turn more to high-energy intensity products. In Sweden, for example, the high social groups do not really have an obesity problem whereas the low-income groups do. This phenomenon is reproduced regarding access to physical activity. The low-income groups have problems here again as they experience problems in accessibility to physical activity, due to costs," said Francesco Branca from the WHO regional office for Europe.

"A priority focus regarding physical obesity and obesity prevention should be children and people of low economic status," said Winfried Banzer from ENGSO, an NGO representing European sports organisations.