The publication of NHS Digital’s obesity statistics reveals the scale of the growing obesity problem we are facing.
With the NHS at breaking point, these figures are a huge cause for concern.
Obesity levels have increased from 15 per cent in 1993 to 27 per cent in 2015 with the number of obesity related hospital admissions increased tenfold over the last decade.
Worryingly, Ealing had amongst the highest rates of obesity related hospital admissions in London with 2,929 admissions in 2015/16.
Obesity related illness is now costing the health service around £6bn a year.
As well as promoting measures such as the sugar reduction programme and soft drinks levy, more must be done to educate and support adults and young people to make healthy and informed dietary and lifestyle choices.
Obesity is associated with a wide range of serious health problems and with a third of 10-11 year olds overweight or obese, it is vital that we take urgent measures to tackle this dangerous epidemic.
Dr Gary Marlowe,
BMA London regional council chair
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