Childhood Obesity Rates Rise In UK

Childhood Obesity

England-wide measuring and weighing of children shows high rates of childhood obesity. The program was conducted by NHS Information Centre from the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP).

Children of 800000 in England were measured and weighed on voluntary bases. This is why lots of children may be overlooked, and the figures don't show the entire picture of childhood obesity. The study accounts that approximately 80% of children participated in the study.

In England 23% children aged from 4 to 5 and 31% children of age 11 are estimated to be overweight or obese. Among children aged from 4 to 5 are obese boys, among children of ages 11 are also obese boy, showing that there are most obese boys than girls in both age groups. North East accounts most obese children of age 6. London accounts most obese children of age 10.

NHS Information Centre's chief executive Tim Straughan said: "The study shows the extent of the obesity problem facing an entire generation of our children. It is of huge concern that one in three children in Year 6 is overweight or obese. It is even more worrying since the figures presented in our report are, if anything, likely to be an under-estimate. This is because participation in the programme is voluntary and overweight or obese children may be more likely not to take part."

The study shows high rates, but the Government is not surprised. The situation was clear before, yet the figures are important to make society understand how important childhood obesity is. British Government launched a 372 million anti-obese campaign last year to have childhood obesity rates cut by 2020. This is 10 years more than previously estimated deadline by 2010.

During the past years Government was actively promoting healthy lifestyle and eating habits, advising parents to give their children more sporting opportunities. School vending machines were junk food banned. However, childhood obesity rates keep rising, urging serious response of health officials, parents and society.