Tough action needed on obesity problem
A group of international researchers have released a series of articles in the Lancet on the catastrophic effects that high levels of obesity are having on the state system.
It has been well documented in the press that the levels of obesity are continuing to rise, and if the government does not take some action soon, it could have overwhelming effects on NHS resources. Society changes can be a catalyst for people finding it more difficult to live a healthy and more active lifestyle.
Obesity can cause a number of health problems, with the most common being diabetes, which now accounts for between 2% and 6% of the total cost of healthcare in most countries. The US and UK are two of the developed countries with the most worrying levels of obesity. It is thought that if the rate of obesity continues to rise, the cost to the NHS could be around £2.5 billion by 2030. This is a figure which it would simply not have the means to accommodate.
The researchers have identified a number of strategies which could be taken to try and combat these high obesity levels. Simple procedures such as putting tax on junk food, restricting advertising on junk food and more in-depth school based educational problems, are just some of the suggestions which have been made. It is thought that education is one of the main ways in which people can be taught from a young age about their diet, and the possible consequences of an unhealthy lifestyle.
If you are worried about over-eating and obesity, then you may want to look into hypnotherapy as a way of dealing with your eating habits. To find out more about how it could help you, please visit our fact sheet for further information.
View the original BBC News article.