If you have a child in reception or year six at school, you will remember that you were asked recently whether your child could take part in the National Childhood Measurement Programme (NCMP).
The purpose of the NCMP, which happens yearly, is to measure whether children are overweight, very overweight or underweight.
Results released by the IW NHS today, reveal that Island children who took part in the programme are in line with the national average – but some might say that this is one national average that we shouldn’t aspire to.
24% of 4-5 year olds overweight
It’s quite surprising to read that 24% of reception age children (4-5 year olds) on the Island are overweight and a whopping 30% of year six (10-11 year olds) children are considered overweight for their age and height.
The measurement exercise was carried out by the School Nursing Team.
NHS IoW’s School Nurse Team Lead Rachel Amos said, “We have been pleased with the uptake over the past few years which have been in the region of 85-90%. This is in line with Government targets and results in an accurate representation of the Island’s young people.
“School staff and the school nurse team work together to create a relaxed atmosphere during the measurement taking and parents and students have been very supportive in participating in this important programme.”
Dr Bettina Harms, Consultant Paediatrician commented, “It is very important that children and families eat healthy to achieve normal weight and engage in physical exercise to prevent type 2 diabetes happening in younger children and young adults.”
