Health Expert Pioneers Project to Tackle UK Obesity Epidemic

08/02/07 A Researcher at Coventry University’s Applied Research Centre in Health and Lifestyle Interventions is pioneering an innovative way of tackling obesity through a family based weight management project entitled Y W8? (Why Weight?), which is part of Telford and Wrekin Primary Care Trust’s Let’s Get Physical programme, that aims to get people more active.

Y W8? is a study aimed at tackling the problems associated with childhood obesity. Overweight children and their families attend a weekly session for 12 weeks, involving fun activities to improve fitness, nutrition and self-esteem. The project also provides parents with simple and practical advice to help their family make long-term lifestyle changes.

The project’s holistic approach has so far helped 24 families, and another 12 are currently taking part in Y W8? Over 80% of the children who have taken part in the project have improved their Body Mass Index (BMI) and around 70% of parents have also seen a loss of excess weight.

The rise in childhood obesity is of serious concern. According to figures from the Department of Health, more than 8.5% of 6 year olds and 15% of 15 year olds in England are classified as obese. On present trends half of all children in England in 2020 could be obese. The Y W8? scheme run by Telford and Wrekin PCT is forging change by encouraging a positive focus on healthy eating and active living by acknowledging that the problem is not just clinical, but also cultural and psychological.Helen Pittson, the Project Lead on Y W8?, has developed the project as part of her PhD at Coventry University.

The project, which is under-pinned by health psychology research, overcomes complex barriers to losing weight by offering families tailored solutions. Detailed questionnaires are filled in by participants regarding their sedentary activity (e.g. watching TV), physical activity, diet and self-esteem. Realistic exercise regimes and weight loss goals are then set for individuals, as reasons for obesity can vary from person to person.

Y W8? involves a weekly exercise session for ‘graduates’ and their families. There are also reviews at 6 and 12 months after programme completion to encourage families to exercise together and continue to make lifestyle changes.

Helen Pittson, a Researcher at Coventry University’s Applied Research Centre in Health and Lifestyle Interventions, said: “By targeting children there are opportunities to change eating patterns and set up a life-long habit of exercise and physical activity. The project tackles the root cause of obesity and works with children to improve their confidence and self esteem. I enjoy working with families to make long-term changes, and seeing the positive results.

“The lack of activity in the UK is a key factor in the increase in obesity, and stepping up exercise levels is an essential way of helping to make families healthier. It is vital that people whose lives are affected by obesity are able to get the support that they need. There are serious health risks associated with obesity including heart disease, diabetes and kidney failure. There's also psychological consequences for individuals including low self-esteem, anxiety and depression.”