Scottish Obesity Problem Just Behind USA!
A new report has revealed shocking results that obesity levels in Scotland are the second highest in the developed world, falling just behind the USA. The figures were released by ISD Scotland, and would suggest that current approaches to obesity are having little impact.
This is of serious concern given the health problems associated with obesity, such as type II diabetes, colon cancer, and hypertension.
The ISD Scotland report that:
- Since 1995 obesity in the adult population has increased by 46%.
- There have been marked increases in men aged 35 to 64, and in women aged 35 to 44 who were obese.
- Nearly one in five (18%) boys, and over one in ten (14%) girls, aged 2-15 years, are obese.
With the cost of treating obesity-related disease in Scotland estimated at £171m in 2001, it’s without a doubt time to take action.
What are the possible causes for this increase?
The report highlights declining levels of physical activity as a possible factor. They also suggest that the availability of cheap, energy-dense food could be a further problem. Once again, these findings are nothing new, and it makes me wonder why haven’t we been able to reduce the incidence of obesity?
Following this report, new legislation will be applied in Scotland from August 2008. Health experts have advised:
- Chips should only be served in schools as part of a nutritional meal.
- At least two portions of fruit and vegetables to be served every lunchtime.
- Oily fish to be served once every three weeks.
- Deep fried food to be limited to three items a week.
- Sweets and fizzy drinks to be removed from schools.
This is definitely a step in the right direction, however I wonder if it’s really enough? My particular concern is “deep fried foods to be limited to three items a week!” I imagine that some of these kids will already be eating fried foods almost every night at home. Surely it’s possible to reduce consumption of high fatty foods to less than three times per week, at least during their school meals?
Tory health spokeswoman Mary Scanlon made a very valid suggestion when she said, “This sends a clear message that we need to start educating people about the dangers of an unhealthy lifestyle, starting with mothers in ante-natal classes.” Very true!
The report reminded me of recent articles regarding the Australian government’s proposal to reduce the levels of obesity. The Australian General Practice Network are to propose a $170 subsidy be given to overweight people, to encourage them to take part in an accredited weight loss programme. Like Kathryn, I too wonder if paying people to lose weight is the correct path to take. However, it seems clear that our current methods are failing to work.
What are your thoughts on this? Would you be happy that others were receiving money to lose weight? Would it make losing weight easier for you? We’d love to hear what you think!
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