1. What lifestyle related illnesses are children more prone to if they do not take exercise? They are more prone to childhood obesity which will further predispose them to metabolic syndrome include hypertension, hyperlipidemia , diabetes (insulin resistance), early artherosclerosis , coronary heart disease as well as mental health problem such as low self esteem and depression. 2. Do you have any statistics on obesity rates in children in Malaysia? the exact statistic but it is certainly on the rising trend. 3. What advice would you give parents who have children that stay indoors (watching TV/playing video games/on the internet etc) instead of going outdoors? They should look at the above r isk for the long term adverse health outcome seriously and start taking practical steps to be more involved in the outdoor activities such as playing games(football, badminton etc..) together, swimming, jogging, brisk walking r children in action by bringing them along rather than just talking about it. 4. Are children in danger if they go outside and climb trees and run around in a park? ( For instance cut knees, falling from a tree, catching a bug etc). No doubt out door activities are more prone to injury but as long as parents supervise their children from getting out of control, major injury seldom happen. Parents should make sure their children are well protected with r ecommended vaccinations. Any history of all ergy need to be noted as well especially allergy to pollen, dust and . By going outdoors, children will be more in symbiotic with their environment and thus will reduce their risk of allergy and make their immune systems stronger. Childre n who confined to indoor or room activities are more prone to infection due to inadequate ventilation and overcrowding because of limited space. Whereas, outdoor activities offer unlimited space and better ventilation for the children to explore and to pl ay with much lower risk of contracting or spreading infection. Most importantly is they get physically fit and prevent them from the risk of obesity and its complications. By: Dr Khoo Boo Aik Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist Sunwa y Medical Centre.