Being overweight or obese could soon overtake smoking as the major cause of preventable ill health. In 2010, almost a quarter of adults in England were obese.
Causes of obesity
People become obese by overeating, eating fatty foods, having irregular meals, or through a lack of daily physical activity. Obesity can be hereditary, which means the risk of obesity increases if being over weight runs in your family. It is lifestyle that determines if you will be over weight. Also certain medications can cause weight gain.
Health problems and obesity
Obesity can cause common physical problems including, difficulties breathing, difficulties walking or running, increased sweating, pain in the knees and back, skin conditions such as acne and gallstones. It can also cause more serious diseases including: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, some types of cancer, heart disease and heart attacks, strokes and colon cancer (now associated with excess fat consumption in the diet).
Help is available
The Watch It programme supports young people, and Weigh Ahead supports adults, to change their lifestyles so they can lose weight, details are on this page. Or, speak to the local Health Trainers.
Health Trainers
Health Trainers offer one-to-one support in leading a healthier lifestyle, including advice and information, how to eat healthily, support around weight loss, support in accessing physical activities, referral to stop smoking and more. The Service is free and confidential. Contact Sophina Aghar on 07903 328020 or Paul Nash on 07823 558700.