Rotary Sunrise is teaming up with the Cayman Islands Cancer Society to present a Youth Health Fair next month.
The event will focus on wellness and the physical and emotional health of young people between the ages of four and 16, said a Rotary press release.
The health fair is set for 11 March at the Family Life Centre off Walkers Road from 10am until 5pm. Admission is free.
Through a series of interactive activities the organizers aim to show young people and their parents that it can be fun getting fit and healthy.
There will be opportunities to try new games and activities along with cooking demonstrations and lessons on how to make healthy school lunches and snacks.
Organizers have also arranged competitions and prizes to encourage participation including gym memberships, swimming sessions, skateboard park vouchers, tickets to the cinema and family photo sessions.
Among the topics presented will be the importance of physical activity and nutrition in developing a healthy lifestyle as well as the impact of risky behaviours, including sexual practices and substance abuse, on health and wellness, the release said.
Dr. Sook Yin, Medical Director of the Cancer Society, explained that the behaviours and lifestyles we adopt in our youth can seriously affect our health as an adult.
A growing body of research shows that diseases, such as Type 2 diabetes and hypertension, normally associated with adults are now being seen in young people. Certain types of cancer, such as cervical cancer, develop as a result of a virus that is sexually transmitted, which can happen at the time of first intercourse.
Other types of risky behaviours, such as the use of tobacco, alcohol and illegal drugs, can also have health implications for young people.
However, studies show that young people who are physically active and eat well are less likely to engage in these so-called risky activities.
Among the invited speakers to the fair are Sabrina Hernandez, a nutritionist with Baptist Health South Florida, and international fitness professional Laura Ribbins.
Experts will also be on hand to discuss and advise on therapies and disease prevention and treatment.
Adults and children will have an opportunity to have their cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure checked as well as their body mass index measured. BMI is one of the tools used to assess a person for obesity.
The main presentations will take place between noon and 2pm.
‘Rotary Sunrise is delighted to participate in this important event,’ said Rotary Sunrise President Stuart Diamond. ‘We believe that by partnering with these other agencies to encourage young people to be active and eat sensibly we can create a healthier Cayman.’
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