Healthy Living Day 2008

MPs and people working on the parliamentary estate took their first steps towards achieving a healthier lifestyle by having their Body Mass Index (BMI) measured at a Cancer Research UK parliamentary exhibition stand on Wednesday 23 January.

The key aim of the healthy living event was to raise awareness of the link between obesity and cancer. After smoking, being overweight or obese are the most significant modifiable risk factors for cancer. We also spoke to MPs about a recent survey conducted by the charity which found that 65 per cent of people questioned were unaware that being overweight or obese could increase an individual’s risk of developing cancer.

Cancer Research UK provided visitors with advice and information about how to maintain a healthy weight and the potential health risks of obesity, such as the Ten Top Tips programme, developed in partnership with Weight Concern, to support the key message of healthy eating and being active.

The annual event was a success with nearly 70 MPs having their BMI measured and having their photo taken to help promote healthy living within their local constituency. </</p>

Cancer Research UK raises awareness of the avoidable risks of cancer and the importance of screening and early detection through our Introducing cancer prevention pages.