Healthy weight

Obesity has become an increasingly urgent public health issue in the UK, which now ranks among the most affected nations globally. This rise in obesity is driving up the prevalence of related illnesses and hospital admissions, placing immense pressure on the NHS. Projections suggest that the financial burden could soar to £9.7 billion annually by 2050. 

These high prevalences can have severe consequences for individuals, society and the healthcare system, and the issue is being treated as a top priority by health planners. In children, excess weight leads to other health conditions and is linked to asthma, early puberty, diabetes and some cancers. It can also cause anxiety, poor self-esteem and eating disorders. If remaining obese into adulthood, these individuals will have a lower life expectancy than adults who are not obese. Rates of obesity are disproportionately higher among certain ethnic groups and in more deprived communities. 

We work in the health and care system to improve outcomes through prevention and workforce education programmes, to achieve a more cohesive, equitable, and effective approach to achieving healthy weight, a better quality of life and reduced mortality.