The Minister of Health has spoken out in support of the Live Healthy Bermuda 100-Day Challenge and The Royal Gazette's Have a Heart campaign.

Minister Nelson Bascome has also urged all Bermudians to make healthier food choices and to exercise on a regular basis.

Yesterday, this paper in conjunction with the first day of the Live Healthy Bermuda 100-Day Challenge, began the Have a Heart campaign, which is a year-long effort to raise awareness of the obesity problem on the Island.

With the incidence level of Type II diabetes soaring and reports that 63 percent of adults in Bermuda weigh in above a normal body weight, The Royal Gazette decided to launch an awareness campaign.

Mr. Bascome yesterday threw his support behind the initiatives.

"As Minister of Health it is my mandate to promote the health and welfare of this community," he said. "The Ministry of Health is a sponsor for the 100-Day Challenge because we are committed to work with any organisation in this community that is promoting a healthier Bermuda.

"Our focus as a Ministry is on preventing disease as opposed to treating disease.

"If we are going to impact the rising cost of healthcare, our focus must be on living and leading healthier lives. This initiative is vital for every member of our community.

"I not only encourage Bermudians to change but I challenge them to envision the type of life they hope to lead in the future and to do all within their power to change their habits today so that might be their reality tomorrow."

Also coming out in support of the campaign yesterday was Jessica Wade, an outpatient dietician at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

Not only is the hospital preaching, but it is also practicing the initiative by encouraging staff to join the 100-Day Challenge.

She said: "Bermuda is facing increasing rates of diabetes, obesity and cardiac disease as a result of poor lifestyle choices.

"The hospital fully supports wellness initiatives and actively encourages staff members, patients and members of the public to choose wisely when it comes to healthy eating and exercise.

"BHB is pleased to join the 100-Day Challenge and is offering several incentives to staff members who participate in this project."

So far the 100-Day Challenge has seen an overwhelming response from the public with more than 1,300 participants signing up for 232 challenge teams.

Live Healthy Bermuda is a offshoot of Live Healthy America.

Mr. Bascome also offered some advice for Bermudians striving to change their lifestyles.

"Bermudians need to consider two important steps if we are to address the problem of obesity," he said.

"One, make healthier food choices and two:, commit to regular exercise.

"Those two changes in lifestyle will have a significant impact on their health. To get started does not require drastic steps. They need to do simple things that can lead to long term change.

"Make time to walk. It can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator as a first step.

"Cut out the fruity drinks and drink water instead.

"Set achievable goals for themselves and each step along that continuum can lead to positive and healthy results."

For more information about the challenge go to www.livehealthybermuda.org or call the Bermuda Diabetes Association at 236-3668.

If you have a weight loss success story or one of struggle, e-mail or call Mikaela Pearman at mpearman@royalgazette.bm or Robyn Skinner at: rskinner@royalgazette.bm