21/08/2014

NI Primary Schools Urged To Enrol For Cancer Focus Package

Primary schools across Northern Ireland are being urged to enrol for Cancer Focus NI's Schools Health Education Package (SHEP) in a bid to lower the future generations' risk of cancer and other serious health conditions.

The package, which fits in with the NI Curriculum, tackles issues around obesity, sunburn and smoking among local children.

Niamh McDaid, Cancer Prevention Officer, Cancer Focus NI, said: "Children of all ages will benefit from being involved in these highly interactive and engaging activities that are designed to be informative and fun. Children learn about positive health behaviours, such as healthy eating and regular exercise, while teachers and parents can also benefit from key cancer prevention messages.

"We’re developing healthy attitudes at a young age when children are most receptive to new ideas. Healthy eating, combined with regular exercise through active play, can help improve children’s concentration and sleeping patterns as well as lower their future risk of cancer."

Schools are invited to sign up for the whole package or any of its individual elements by contacting Cancer Focus NI on 028 9068 0764 or emailing schools@cancerfocusni.org

For further information on Cancer Focus NI visit www.cancerfocusni.org.

(IT/CD)

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