The Northwestern Health Unit has poured over the data collected in a student health behaviour study and Health Promoter Stephanie Cran says there are still areas that they have to focus on.
Cran says they need to work with schools, parents and community groups to increase fruit and vegetable consumption, increase physical activity levels, decrease screen time and decrease tobacco and other substance abuse.
She notes improvements are also needed to promote positive mental health.
Cran says the health unit will now move forward on a strategy to improve the well-being of elementary and secondary students in the Kenora and Rainy River Districts.
She stresses it’s important to work with community partners and parent councils to improve healthy living behaviours in several different areas.
Cran adds health and education are linked and when parents are involved in their child’s school, it creates better outcomes for students.
For more information, visit www.nwhu.on.ca
