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10/12/2009
Child Obesity 'Levelling Off'
New figures have suggested escalating child obesity in the UK is beginning to level off, however, rates are still too high, according to the government.
The National Child Measurement Programme suggested families are benefiting from knowing the facts about their child's weight.
Over one million four to five-year-olds and 10 to 11-year-olds were weighed and measured as part of the research.
One in five children aged four and five were classed as overweight or obese, with almost one in three 10 and 11-year-old registering as the same.
These figures varied slightly from last year.
Public Health Minister, Gillian Merron said: "Evidence is stacking up to show that child obesity is levelling off.
"It's important to monitor children's weight and wellbeing, and I’m glad that we achieved a 90% take up of the scheme," she said.
"But we need to keep the momentum going. We'll only turn the tide on obesity for good if everyone plays their part."
The National Child Measurement Programme which has been running since 2005 has produced one of the largest collections of data on children’s height and weight in the world.
Joanne Hudson, Healthy Weight Children's Lead, NHS Walsall, said the programme, is providing additional services in schools and engaging with families.
(PR/BMcC)
The National Child Measurement Programme suggested families are benefiting from knowing the facts about their child's weight.
Over one million four to five-year-olds and 10 to 11-year-olds were weighed and measured as part of the research.
One in five children aged four and five were classed as overweight or obese, with almost one in three 10 and 11-year-old registering as the same.
These figures varied slightly from last year.
Public Health Minister, Gillian Merron said: "Evidence is stacking up to show that child obesity is levelling off.
"It's important to monitor children's weight and wellbeing, and I’m glad that we achieved a 90% take up of the scheme," she said.
"But we need to keep the momentum going. We'll only turn the tide on obesity for good if everyone plays their part."
The National Child Measurement Programme which has been running since 2005 has produced one of the largest collections of data on children’s height and weight in the world.
Joanne Hudson, Healthy Weight Children's Lead, NHS Walsall, said the programme, is providing additional services in schools and engaging with families.
(PR/BMcC)
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