[ad_1]
The government of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is reportedly looking to develop a social rewards program that could help the Department of Health’s ongoing efforts to tackle obesity in the country.
UK newspaper The Telegraph reported on Friday that Johnson had enlisted Keith Mills, who helped organize the London Olympics, to launch the national initiative, which could include a system through which “loyalty points” can be awarded. earned based on citizens’ healthy lifestyle commitments. .
According to The Telegraph, spending at family supermarkets would be monitored as part of the program, with those who reduce their calorie intake and buy more fruits and vegetables rewarded with points.
People could also earn points by increasing their exercise at organized events or walking to school, the outlet reported.
Potential prizes for accumulated loyalty points include vouchers and discounts, as well as free tickets and other incentives.
The announced plan, which The Telegraph says is slated to launch in January, comes as outgoing UK (UK) National Health Service (NHS) chief Lord Stevens said on Friday that officials with the health might find it difficult to fight off diseases in the future if obesity is not immediately treated.
Johnson himself has drawn attention to the problem of obesity, saying in March that he believed his weight contributed to his stay in intensive care after being diagnosed with COVID-19.
Johnson said at the time that he was “doing everything I could to lose weight,” adding that he had cut out the carbs and “late night cheese.”
Health experts have said overweight people are at risk of greater complications from COVID-19.
The Hill has contacted the UK Department of Health and Welfare for comment on the reported plans.
The UK government previously announced in March that it would offer financial rewards of up to $700,000 overweight or obese people to take weight management courses.
Johnson said at the time that while “losing weight is difficult,” making “small changes can make a big difference. Being overweight increases your risk of getting sick with Covid.”
“If we all do our part, we can reduce our own health risks but also bring relief to the NHS,” he added, according to The Guardian.
Last month, the UK Department of Health announced it would ban TV and online ads promoting junk food before 9 p.m. and this week announced it would restrict promotions of unhealthy food in stores at from October 2022.
[ad_2]
Source link