More than half of Redbridge residents now overweight or obese
More than half of people in Redbridge are overweight or obese, according to new figures.
Public Health England (PHE) found that 55 per cent of residents were over a healthy weight as gauged by the body mass index.
Although the figure is below the average for London and England, the authority said levels are still “worryingly high”.
Dr Yvonne Doyle, London director at PHE, said: “There is no silver bullet to reducing obesity. It is an issue that requires action at national, local, family and individual level.”
She urged everyone to swap an everyday snack for a more healthy option and encourage children to be active.
You may also want to watch:
Child obesity is a growing problem in Redbridge and people living in economic deprivation are more likely to be overweight.
It can increase the risk of developing type two diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.
Most Read
- 1 NHS nurse assaulted at east London hospital
- 2 Redbridge parents' group donates six new laptops to families in need
- 3 Restaurant faces losing licence after allegations of illegal club nights during pandemic
- 4 One in 20 may have had Covid-19 last week in Redbridge, Newham and Barking and Dagenham, figures suggest
- 5 Residents furious after car park and lift flooded since before Christmas
- 6 Queen's and King George hospitals appeal for volunteers to support end of life patients
- 7 Restaurant stripped of its alcohol licence
- 8 Covid deaths increase at Queen's and King George hospitals this week
- 9 Growing public support for tougher pet theft sentences
- 10 Double murder accused remanded in custody over ‘brutal’ stabbings
PHE said health problems associated with excess weight cost the NHS over £5billion each year.
Reducing obesity and improving fitness is one of the main priorities set by Redbridge Council’s health and wellbeing board.
What do you think should be done to tackle the problem? Tweet @IlfordRecorder or comment below.
