Which initiative is an example of the new public health model for dealing with the increase in childhood obesity? (A) Increased child allowance payments to parents (B) Medical interventions for overweight children (C) Student-conducted survey of canteen products (D) Compulsory school screening for obesity levels - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 5 - 2006 - Paper 1

To determine which initiative aligns with the new public health model, consider the following key aspects:

1. Focus on Prevention: New public health models emphasize prevention and health promotion over direct medical interventions. Hence, initiatives that focus on community engagement and awareness can be more significant.

2. Community-Based Approaches: Initiatives that involve community participation and awareness can be more effective in addressing public health issues, such as obesity.

Considering the options,

• A (Increased child allowance payments to parents) focuses on financial support, not directly on health.
• B (Medical interventions for overweight children) is a medical approach and not preventative.
• C (Student-conducted survey of canteen products) involves students in data collection and can raise awareness about dietary choices, promoting healthier eating habits.
• D (Compulsory school screening for obesity levels) is more of a monitoring approach rather than a proactive health initiative.

Given these factors, C is the best example of an initiative aligned with the new public health model.