B.C. has lowest obesity levels in 10 years: minister

VICTORIA - B.C.'s minister of healthy living and sport says a new survey shows the province has the lowest self-reported obesity rates in 10 years.

The 2008 Canadian Community Health Survey covers obesity rates in Canadians aged 18 and older.

Mary Polak says it shows B.C. is the only province to achieve a significant drop in self-reported adult obesity.

Levels decreased by 15 per cent from 12.7 per cent in 2005 to 10.9 per cent in 2007.

It's the first considerable decrease since reporting began in 1996.

Polak says the ActNow BC healthy-living initiative is aimed at encouraging British Columbians to eat more better, increase physical activity, eliminate tobacco use and make healthy choices in pregnancy.

ActNow BC's 2008 Road to Health Community Tour interactive exhibit is currently travelling B.C. promoting healthy lifestyle choices.

Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador reported the highest self-reported obesity rates at 21 per cent, and throughout Canada, average rates have increased from 11.7 per cent in 1996 to 15.5 per cent in 2007.