The incidence of diabetes mellitus is on the rise in the Maltese Islands. Rates of diabetes have increased dramatically in recent years in parallel

with obesity

In basic terms, when diabetes is present, the body fails to produce insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the insulin produced is not enough or the body cannot properly use the insulin it does create (type 2 diabetes). Obesity, physical inactivity and increasing age are all risk factors which increase the chances of someone developing type 2 diabetes. There is no single or simple solution. The problems are only tackled when lifestyle changes are taken on and these would include a regular healthy balanced diet, an increase in physical activity and loss of weight if necessary. In some cases, oral medication or insulin injections might be necessary to keep the blood sugar level steady.

Research confirms that health and education are linked and the latter needs to go beyond the school gates. The school setting has a key role in supporting students’ health and that of their families and communities. The educational setting, both formal and informal, can be important in promoting good health, while students who are in good health are more likely to make the most of their educational opportunities.

Encouraging a healthy lifestyle is an aim that has been pursued in the school’s development plan for a number of years. In fact, one of the action plans, ‘healthy living’, aims to encourage good health amongst all stakeholders. One of the activities for this scholastic year was a seminar related to the prevention and treatment of diabetes. This seminar was aimed at parents/guardians of students attending all primary and secondary schools within St Thomas More College.

The seminar was held on 9 February, 2012, at M’Xlokk primary school hall. Dr Jason Bonnici, a family doctor specialising in diabetes, gave an overview of the different types of diabetes and explained the disease process and how it can be prevented and treated. Moreover, he described the common complications that result when diabetes is left untreated. Dr Mario Caruana, a dietician, clarified misguiding food myths and misunderstandings concerning diets, nutrition and weight loss. It was an interesting session where the audience had the opportunity to ask questions related to the topic. At the end of the seminar, Mr Mario Fleri Soler, a nursing officer, invited all attendees to check their body mass index, blood sugar level and blood pressure.

Other events, also part of the ‘healthy living’ action plan, are organised on a regular basis for all students attending St Lucia Girls’ Secondary school. We make sure that all students experience a variety of physical activities throughout their years in secondary school. These include dance workshops, swimming sessions, trekking and beach games. The latter includes fun activities focusing on stamina, speed and strength. Promoting a lifelong physically active lifestyle is of great importance. It not only makes the students physically fitter but it enhances longevity and quality of life. It also improves mental health and general sense of well being as well as reduces the risk of major illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and osteoporosis.

Activities related to good nutritious food are also given top priority. The school is very keen on providing students with food products that have a high nutritional value with minimal amount of fat, salt and sugar. Recently, the school tuck shop, which is run by a group of teachers, has been given a facelift. Healthier food products, including wraps, bread rolls, nuts and fruit juices are amongst the available products. Other initiatives include ‘healthy breakfast’. The activity goal is to encourage students not to miss the most important meal of the day as it provides the nutrients needed to start the day off right.

Students spend a lot of time at schools, making it an important setting for promoting physical activity and good nutrition. Hence, the planning and effort that teachers put together to organise health-related activities are all worth their weight in gold. The local schools’ environment needs to be conducive to healthy food choices and physical activity to provide students with opportunities to practise healthy living behaviour inside and outside the classroom.

Marconia Schembri is head of department, physical education,

St Thomas More College,

Girls’ Secondary School, St Lucia