Obesity Strategy
The term "obese" describes a person who's very overweight, with a lot of body fat. It's a common problem in the UK that's estimated to affect around one in every four adults and around one in every five children aged 10 to 11.
It's very important to take steps to tackle obesity because, as well as causing obvious physical changes, it can lead to a number of serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, such as:
- type 2 diabetes
- coronary heart disease
- some types of cancer, such as breast cancer and bowel cancer
- stroke
Obesity can also affect your quality of life and lead to psychological problems, such as depression and low self-esteem (see below for more information about the health problems associated with obesity).
useful links
Childhood Obesity: A Plan for Action
Adult Obesity: Applying All our Health
Wiltshire Obesity Strategy
Swindon Obesity Strategy
