April 7, 2001
Health Ambassadors help put across correct health care messages to people around them and enhance public participation in health promotion, the Director of Health, Dr Margaret Chan said today (April 7).
Speaking at the Seventh Health Ambassador Graduation Ceremony at the Concert Hall of the City Hall, Dr Chan said that the Department of Health (DH) trained more than 1 000 Health Ambassadors last year (2000).
Dr Chan said: "Another 137 senior citizens, 208 women, 106 teachers and 560 students were trained as Health Ambassadors last year. Together with other Health Ambassadors graduated formerly, they have implemented over 4 000 health education activities and attracted an attendance of over one million."
"The fact that applicants for the training programme are increasing steadily for years suggests that it is well-received and that the public are willing to take the responsibility for improving their personal health."
Dr Chan reminded Health Ambassadors that healthy lifestyle was the foundation of good health. While no-smoking, having balanced diet and exercising frequently were the three major elements of healthy lifestyle.
"This applies to every citizen in Hong Kong," she said.
As today (April 7) is the World Health Day designated by the World Health Organisation, and that this year's theme is "mental health", Dr Chan urged Health Ambassadors to remain positive and optimistic all the time.
"Our mental pressure can be effectively smoothed-out as we build up our social network, talk with others and share our burdens", Dr Chan said.
She thanked all members who had contributed to the training programme without whom it could never be so successful.
Legislative Councillor Mr Michael Mak today presented prizes at the ceremony.
In addition to the conventional reliance on health activities rendered by health care professionals, DH's Central Health Education Unit has established since 1994 the Health Ambassador Programme with the core concept of drawing community support to and participation in spreading health messages.
Members joining the programme are trained on various health topics including healthy lifestyle and mental and physical health.
It consists of lectures covering major health issues in Hong Kong, healthy lifestyle, communication skill as well as health concerns specific to different groups of trainees.