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WHO Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health

WHO Global Strateghy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health

The World Health Organization developed, under a May 2002 mandate from Member States, a Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health, which was endorsed by the May 2004 World Health Assembly (WHA). The report examines the relationship between diet and physical activity patterns and the major nutritionrelated chronic diseases. Recommendations were made to help prevent death and disability from major nutrition-related chronic diseases: obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, several forms of cancer, osteoporosis, and dental disease. The recommendations are based on the examination and analysis of the best available evidence and the collective judgment of a group of experts who comprised the WHO/FAO Expert Consultation on Diet, Nutrition and the Prevention of Chronic Diseases. Information on the Global Strategy, with several links to additional information can be found at http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity.

The May 2004 WHA resolution referenced the use of Codex Alimentarius (Codex) guidelines and standards as one method for governments to implement the recommendations. To this end, WHO and FAO have established an electronic forum for comments from Codex on several questions. The process and questions for the electronic forum and the comments that will be submitted can be viewed at http://www.who.int/nutrition/FAOWHO_eforum/en/index.html. Only countries and Codex-recognized organizations will be able to submit comments; however, the public will be able to view them at http://www.who.int/nutrition. This issue will be discussed further at the Codex Committee on Food Labeling meeting in May, the Codex Commission meeting in July, and the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses in October. For more information on Codex Alimentarius see http://www.codexalimentarius.net.