The Health Minister this morning launched an anti-obesity outreach campaign.

A stand has been set up in Republic Street where staff hand out information booklets and give advice about daily exercise and food portions.

"This outreach campaign is being held to attract those that do not look for us," Charmaine Gauci, director of the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention said.

The campaign is focusing on the prevention of diseases by maintaining healthy portions both at home and outdoors.

Dr Farrugia noted that prevention was the best guard against diseases, and the Maltese were not including enough fruit and vegetable in their diet.

More than a third of the population is overweight or obese. As part of this campaign, a fun run will be held on the Mtarfa bypass on July 23 at 7pm. Registration starts at 6pm.