Obesity rates

26/08/11

The UK faces an obesity epidemic which could see almost 40% of the population classified as obese by 2030, according to an international research group.

Obesity rates currently stand at 25% in the UK.

The predicted increase could cost the NHS up to £2 billion extra per year and the group warned that without state action health systems may become swamped.

Researchers recommended that whilst the whole of society has a role to play, government must take the lead via legislation.

Taxes on unhealthy food, restrictions on junk food advertising, traffic light labelling and school-based education programmes were all amongst the ideas they put forward as potential solutions to the problem.

Food and Drink Federation: Food and drink industry in UK ahead of the game on obesity

Public health minister: No plans to impose a 'fat tax' to reduce obesity

Obesity researcher: Obesity could be as serious a risk as smoking

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