Initiative Launched to Tackle Childhood Obesity in Jamaica

Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Hon. Krystal Lee, has called for a united response to address childhood overweight and obesity, describing the issue as one of the most significant public health challenges facing Jamaica’s children and future generations.

Ms. Lee stressed that no single institution can tackle the issue alone, while underscoring the importance of collaboration among government, healthcare providers, educators, families, communities, civil society, development partners and the private sector. “By coming together… we affirm our commitment to creating healthier environments that enable children to thrive,” she stated.

The State Minister’s remarks were read by Director, Non-Communicable Disease and Injury Prevention Unit in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr. Tamu Davidson, at the national launch of the Weight a Bit initiative, at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in Kingston on Wednesday (September 30).

Ms. Lee cited findings from the 2026 Global School-based Student Health Survey, which revealed that 31.7 per cent of students aged 13 to 17 were overweight, including 15.3 percent classified as obese.

“This means roughly one in every three students is overweight, and approximately one in six is living with obesity,” the State Minister noted. She pointed out that while the survey findings could not be measured against the 2010 findings because of differences in age groups, the data sends a clear message. The Minister also noted that chronic diseases account for approximately 70 per cent of deaths in Jamaica.

“Preventing these conditions starts with creating environments that support healthy choices from infancy through adolescence,” Ms. Lee stated.

The State Minister described the Weight A Bit campaign as a timely call for Jamaicans to pause and examine the factors influencing children’s health.

“It will take a country willing to make healthy choices easier, safer and more affordable,” she said The State Minister also commended the Paediatric Association of Jamaica and the Heart Foundation of Jamaica for leading the initiative, noting that “every sector has a role to play in protecting and promoting children’s health”.

Ms. Lee urged Jamaicans to place children’s well-being at the centre of national decision-making.

“The actions we take today will shape the health and productivity of future generations. Together, we can build a Jamaica where every child has the opportunity to live a healthy, active and productive life,” she stated.