The Health Impact of the 2012 Games: a Screening Health Impact Assessment of the North East

The London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games 2012 ("The Games") could have a health benefit for the North East.

• The greatest health potential of the Games is as a mechanism to increase physical activity and to inspire young people to participate in sports.
• There is also potential for development of businesses supplying the games, an increase in skills and a benefit to tourism and regional image which could all indirectly improve health.
• There will be an opportunity to update and develop some of the NHS service provision, particularly to establish high quality sports medicine services in the region.
• There is also potential to reduce inequalities if participation can be greatest where there is greatest need. In particular, the equality of the Paralympics with the Olympics for these Games should help reduce stigma from disability.

There are, however, risks to be mitigated - The tension between elite performance sports and wider participation will need to be handled to prevent worsening of inequalities. - There is a risk that the Games will be totally London focussed, drawing resource into the capital and away from the regions. - There is a tradition of consuming alcohol and high fat foods while watching sports on television which will need to be guarded against. - If plans are not embedded in current strategies there is a risk of reversal once the games are over.

• Health Impact Assessment
• Physical Activity

• Activities
• Cycling
• Dancing
• Exercises
• Fitness
• Games
• Jogging
• Leisure Activities
• Leisure Facilities
• Leisure Time
• Physical Activity
• Play
• Sports
• Sports and Recreation (gcl)
• Sports Facilities
• Sports Medicine
• Swimming
• Walking
• Weight Training