Purpose - Children’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey
The children’s nutrition and physical activity survey will collect
detailed information about the food and nutrient intake, physical activity
levels and weight status of a nationally representative sample of children
and young people in Australia in
2006-2007.
These data are needed to inform the development of strategies to promote
good nutrition and physical activity, and to address the rising prevalence
of childhood overweight and obesity in this age group. By collecting
relevant demographic information, results from the survey may be used to
identify population sub-groups at risk of poor nutrition and low physical
activity levels. The information will also contribute to improvements in the
food regulatory environment, particularly among very young children who are
at greater potential risk from exposure to contaminants in the food supply.
The last national survey that collected information about the food and
nutrient intake, eating patterns and weight status of children and young
people was the 1995 National Nutrition Survey. There are no national data on
physical activity levels in children and young people so the survey will
provide valuable baseline data for this component.