Taichung launches 'Star Burn' program, inviting citizens to lose weight and get healthy with prizes

The Taichung City Government launched the '2026 Taichung Star Burn Program' today, encouraging citizens to participate in weight loss challenges as individuals or groups. Participants who meet the criteria can win cash prizes and participate in lucky draws, with the city also offering weight loss courses to promote health. The launch ceremony was attended by Taichung Deputy Mayor Cheng Chao-hsin, Health Bureau Director Tseng Tzu-chan, and event ambassador Chen Ai-hsi. Deputy Mayor Cheng shared that he decided to lose weight in January this year due to health concerns, successfully losing 24 kilograms in six months through diet control and exercise, and encouraged citizens to join the effort. Director Tseng noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) defines 'obesity as a chronic disease,' and warned that obesity significantly increases the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. This year's weight loss challenge is open to Taichung citizens aged 18 and over with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 or higher, lasting for three months. The city is offering a total of NT$1.5 million in health incentives and lucky draws. In addition to the challenge, the city provides programs such as fat-burning classes and free admission to national sports centers. Information can be found on the Health Bureau's website or their Facebook page, 'Taichung City Health Bureau - Health Satellite'.