Integration against obesity

The Dutch Social and Cultural Planning Office reports that many of the country’s migrants are overweight. More than half of the Turks, Moroccans and Antilleans are obese. People with overweight have a higher chance of contracting illnesses such as diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

The Social and Cultural Planning Office says that a recent study shows that integration appears to positively effect body weight. Migrants who speak good Dutch and maintain extensive social contacts with Dutch people have a reduced chance of obesity.

Source: Radio Netherlands, 20 August 2008