The GGD (Intermunicipal Health Department)

Thanks to Jorriena de Jongh for arranging this visit to the Gemeenschapplelijke Gezondheidsdienst Zuidhollandse Eilanden (GGD), the intermunicipal health department serving 15 municipalities. Jorriena was my hostess while in Hellevoetsluis and is an alderwoman for this town. Her primary focus is health care, youth and culture, among other very important ssues.

I was keen to learn about current programs in overweight and obesity prevention. One such project was a primary school based anti-overweight/obesity program called Maatje te Veel (A size too much). This program engaged not only the students, but also the parents, teachers and the community. The program focused on nutrition education and making healthier choices. So far the program seems to be well received by the participants. Hopefully it can be expanded to other school in the future. (Picture: Deborah Cook and Jorriena de Jongh sitting in the lobby of the GGD)