Obesity - Background
Weight gain and obesity pose a threat to countries all over the world. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified obesity as the most pressing die and health issue in the developed world. Being obese increases the risk of developing chronic diseases such as
- heart disease,
- diabetes,
- stroke, and
- some cancers
It is also linked with lowered self-esteem, anxiety and clinical depression.
Overweight and obesity are usually measured using body mass index (BMI) to judge whether a person is an appropriate weight for their height. To calculate BMI you divide a person’s weight (in kilograms) by their height (in metres) squared. Generally, a BMI score of between 20 and 25 defines a “healthy weight”, between 25 and 29 defines "overweight" and a BMI of 30 or over defines "obesity". However, these cut offs are not appropriate for everyone, e.g. pregnant women, athletes and some ethnic groups.
Another important way to assess your weight is by measuring your waist. Having excess weight around your middle (or being ‘apple-shaped’) increases your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
- For women, 32-35in (81-88cm) carries a risk similar to having a BMI of 25-30, and more than 35in (88cm), carries a risk similar to having a BMI greater than 30.
- For men it is 37-40in (94-102cm), and more than 40in (102cm), respectively.
Increase in obesity
There has been a rapid increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity in all age groups in the UK in recent years. For example:
- In 2003, 22% of men and 23% of women were obese. By 2010,this figure could will increase to 33% of men and 28% of women
- Childhood obesity in 2-10 year olds in England has risen from 9.9% in 1995 to 14.3% in 2004. By 2010, 20% of 2-10 year olds could be obese
The rise of obesity
Obesity increase graph - Source: Health Survey for England 2003
© Crown copyright 2004
Health and economic costs
The Government’s nutrition strategy is focused on addressing these issues, particularly in light of the pressure these diseases exert on the National Health Service.
- Over £1 billion per year to the NHS;
- Up to £3.5 billion a year to the wider economy
- 18 million sick days and 40,000 lost years working life
- Obese people live on average nine years less
Current climate
Obesity is now high on the political agenda, and in 2004 the government set an Obesity Public Service Agreement. Part of this work includes:
- A social marketing programme focusing on children at risk of becoming obese
- Restricting further the advertising and promotion to children of those foods and drinks that are high in fat, salt and sugar
- Work to reduce intakes of saturated fat and promote energy balance in diets
