Country profiles on nutrition, physical activity and obesity in the 28 European Union Member States of the WHO European Region: methodology and summary

Abstract

The aim of this document is to give an overview of information on selected monitoring and surveillance indicators as well as on policy developments and actions in the areas of nutrition, physical activity and obesity in the 28 European Union Member States of the WHO European Region. It gives a description of the data sources used and summarizes some of the information that is included in individual country profiles, which are issued separately. The monitoring and surveillance section addresses overweight and obesity in three age groups, exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, intake of saturated fatty acids and salt, fruit and vegetable supply, iodine status and physical inactivity. The policy section focuses on salt-reduction initiatives, trans fatty acids policies, actions taken in the area of marketing of food and non-alcoholic beverages to children, physical activity policies and recommendations. This document intends to support the exchange of experiences, policy development and action in these increasingly important areas of public health.