Ministry of Health Celebrates Global Running Day 2016

The Ministry of Health is encouraging Jamaicans to walk, jog or run for at least 1km in celebration of Global Running Day this Wednesday, June 1 2016.

Global Running Day is recognized worldwide as a day to celebrate the joys and benefits derived from running. Participants are encouraged to pledge to take part in some type of running or walking activity. Whether it is a solo lap around your community, a long run with your friends or even a game of ‘run and ketch’ with your children- participation is easy.

This year, the Ministry of Health is focusing on how physical activity can reduce and possibly eliminate certain non communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of death globally, killing more people each year than all other causes combined. As of 2008, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that of the 57 million deaths that occurred globally, 36 million – almost two thirds – were due to NCDs. In 2010, 70% of deaths in Jamaica were due to the four major NCDs namely cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers and chronic respiratory diseases, of which 27% occurred below the age of 70 years

Minister of Health, Dr. Chris Tufton is encouraging Jamaicans to put together a group in their community, or even a group of friends and get active this Wednesday.

Community members with social media accounts (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook & Snapchat) are being asked to share it online, including the details of groups in their area who will be walking or running so others can participate. The key is to make Global Running Day a lifestyle where persons voluntarily walk or run at least 1km per day.

Take a stride this Wednesday towards leading healthier, fitter lives. Share your passion for the sport and inspire others to get moving. Grab a friend and go!

You can follow the Ministry of Health on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.