Diabetes UK Supports the Need to Tackle Childhood Obesity

12 Oct 2016 --- Three in five (60 per cent) of the most deprived boys in England are projected to be overweight or obese by 2020, compared to just one in six of the most affluent boys according to new analysis by the Obesity Health Alliance.

Obese children are more likely to become obese adults and develop serious health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease

The Obesity Health Alliance is a coalition of health charities, medical royal colleges and campaign groups working together to tackle obesity.

Chris Askew, Chief Executive at diabetes UK, said: “Obesity is a major risk factor in developing Type 2 diabetes, and Type 2 accounts for 9 out of 10 diabetes cases. Treating diabetes and its complications already costs the health service £10 billion a year and the rising cost is placing huge pressure on the NHS.

“Not taking action now will result in the NHS forking out monumental amounts of money for largely preventable conditions. This is why it’s so important to implement the Soft Drinks Industry Levy, manufacture healthier food, and close the loopholes of junk food marketing to children today, so our future health, workforce, and NHS can stand a chance tomorrow.”