Comment on AoMRC obesity report

25 Jun 2013

The obesity epidemic is one of the greatest public health crises facing the UK. The consequences of obesity include diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, arthritis, cancer and mental illness. There are also profound significant psychological and social implications of obesity as well as implications in the workplace. The cost implications for the Health Service are substantial and it is estimated that by 2050 this will reach £ 10billion. More than a quarter of men and women in the UK are classed as obese and almost a third of nine year olds are overweight or obese.

The obesity epidemic requires a clear programme of action. There is no quick fix to this problem – we need long term solutions.

We support the report by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges which outlines the responsibility of healthcare professionals, government, the food industry, educators and individuals to address the obesity crisis head on.

The report marks the start of a wider campaign to tackle obesity and the recommendations outlined are a sensible starting point to dealing with this epidemic. Work now needs to be done to explore the financial and practical implications of meeting these recommendations.

Download the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges obesity report here

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