Madam, - I applaud school principal Aodháin Ó Riordán's point that the role of education is to "build young people's self-esteem, to nurture their positive feelings about themselves" ("Too young to work out?", Life Features, September 17th). However to suggest that "they are fine, whatever size they are" is mistaken.
Obesity is now the most common disease of childhood and adolescence in the developed world. Childhood obesity is also a proven risk factor for the development of coronary heart disease, osteoarthritis, diabetes and cancer in adulthood. As well as looking after the emotional wellbeing of children, schools should also safeguard their future physical health. - Yours, etc,
ADRIAN BRENNAN,
Athenry,
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Co Galway.