A public physical activity program tested in Norway helped low-income residents lose weight and decrease their incidence of high blood pressure and diabetes. The intervention was tested over three years in a multi-ethnic neighborhood with high levels of inactivity, obesity and heart disease. Designed by political leaders and health and welfare advocates, the program sought to raise the level of physical activity in simple easy steps. Activity was promoted using organized walks, and flyers encouraging the use of stairs for exercise, as well as free counseling for diet, nutrition and quitting smoking. These low-cost strategies proved effective in helping the residents lose weight, lower blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
