Daily Exercise Fading from Children's Lives as Healthy Eating Remains a Challenge in Malta

Experts have raised concerns that routine physical activity is "gradually disappearing from young people's lives," as recent data shows Malta struggles with children's activity levels compared to other countries.

A study by the World Health Organization (WHO), encompassing 44 countries, highlights that Malta faces challenges in promoting daily physical activities, such as brisk walking or cycling, among its youth. It also reveals that many children in Malta skip breakfast on school days, despite its importance as a healthy eating habit.

While there have been improvements in fruit and vegetable consumption, children in Malta still fall short of meeting recommended dietary guidelines. The study also reveals disparities based on socioeconomic status, with children from lower-income families less likely to eat nutritious meals or engage in regular physical activity.

The research assessed children aged 11, 13, and 15 across Europe, Central Asia, and Canada, including a significant sample from Maltese schools. The findings indicate that the large majority of girls and 20% of boys in Malta are physically inactive. By the age of 15, only 5% of girls and 15% of boys meet the recommended 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily.

Malta's activity levels lag behind other European countries, including Spain, Italy, and Sweden, placing it near the bottom of the global ranking. Although participation in more vigorous activities like team sports shows some improvement, the overall figures remain below the international average.

A public health expert in Malta emphasised, "Day-to-day moderate activities, such as walking to school or spending time outdoors, are increasingly absent from children’s routines. This trend is worrying as it can significantly affect their long-term health and well-being."

Regarding breakfast consumption, only 39% of 13-year-old girls and 56% of boys in Malta report eating breakfast on weekdays. By age 15, this drops further, with just 33% of girls and 50% of boys starting their day with breakfast. These figures are lower than the averages observed in several other European nations.

Fruit consumption among Maltese children also remains below desirable levels. Approximately 45% of girls and 42% of boys aged 11 eat fruit daily, while only 37% of girls and 33% of boys aged 15 do the same. Vegetable consumption reflects similar patterns, with significant gaps between children from affluent families and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Economic disparities play a major role in access to fresh produce and healthy meals. Families with limited resources may find it challenging to afford or prepare nutritious meals regularly, impacting children’s health outcomes.

On a positive note, the study notes a decline in sugary drink consumption among Maltese children, coupled with gradual improvements in fruit and vegetable intake. However, experts stress the need for more focused interventions to promote physical activity and healthy eating habits across all socioeconomic groups.

Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, underscored the importance of these lifestyle factors: "Regular exercise, balanced diets, and maintaining a healthy weight are critical for children’s physical and mental well-being. Addressing these issues must remain a priority for policymakers and communities alike."

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Some references

* Levels of physical activity among children were assessed in the WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative in 2015–2017, those of adolescents in the Health Behaviour of School-aged Children survey in 2017–2018

** MALTA PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FACTSHEET 2021

*** Health Behaviour In School-Aged Children - a WHO collaborative cross-national study of adolescent health and well-being. The survey, administered in schools, is undertaken every four years using a questionnaire for 11-, 13- and 15-year-olds.