CJOB News Team reporting
7/28/2010
Winnipeg South MP Rod Bruinooge has applauded the government’s commitment of $110 million over two years to tackle alarming diabetes rates in Aboriginals.
The federal Conservatives have renewed funding for the Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative (ADI) which delivers culturally-relevant programs aimed at reducing the incidence and prevalence of diabetes, including the promotion of healthy living and wellness.
Bruinooge said investment will go a long way because many Aboriginals need to start making healthier choices. He added the high-sugar, low-fibre diet that’s far too common amongst Aboriginals is slowly killing Aboriginal people..
He says the ADI will help address barriers to a healthy lifestyle such as access to healthy foods.
The rate of diabetes among First Nations people about fifty years ago was almost non-existent but now is three times the national average.
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