Healthy lifestyles . . . healthy people − The Mega Country Health Promotion Network

In December 2001, the World Health Organization launched the Mega Country Health Promotion Network. This network includes the countries with populations of 100 million or more. The 11 countries that are part of this network account for more than 60% of the world's population. The overall goal of this network is to promote healthy lifestyles; much of the focus of activities will be on promoting a healthy diet, based on food‐based dietary guidelines and increased physical activity. Data will be presented that illustrate the ‘double burden’ of disease in the low income populations in these 11 countries. The network is attempting to identify new paradigms for health promotion, including the innovative use of public/private partnerships. Examples of these innovations will be presented.