VIASANO in Belgium

VIASANO Programme has been developed and adapted in Belgium with the EPODE methodology.
http://www.epode-european-network.com/en/epode-in-europe-detail/101.html?start=1>

Little cousin of the French EPODE programme, VIASANO has for objective to prevent childhood obesity as well as cardiovascular risk in adults. The programme was set up in 2007 with 2 pilot cities: one in Flanders (Hasselt) and one in Wallonia (Mouscron). Today, the programme has been extended to 14 other cities: Jette and Woluwe -Saint- Pierre (Brussels), Marche-en-Famenne (Wallonia), Aarschot and Huldenberg (Flanders) and the 9 towns of the German speaking community (see figure 1 here below).

Figure 1: VIASIANO cities in February 2010

Since then, each community of Belgium is represented. Health prevention being part of the mandate of the Communities, the programme is adapted in order to integrate relevant recommendations, policies and vision on healthy diet and physical activity.
VIASANO is endorsed by several scientific institutions (caring for obesity, diabetes, heart-diseases) and supported by the authorities of each Community.
Each VIASANO-city is engaged in the programme for 4 years. The prevention statement is "Eat better, move more: all on tracks!". Every 6 months, a campaign proposes one theme to the population related to a healthy diet, or the promotion of physical activity or a well-being-related topic (e.g. a good sleep). For instance, the 6th campaign (which has begun in January 2010) deals with the good management of lipids in a healthy and balanced diet including lots of concrete advice to manage it (breakfast, lunch, snacks or diner).

For more information, consult VIASANO Resources centre and VIASANO website.