Why our overweight children - and adults - will cost us millions.... (1)

..... That is the shocking message from a report into childhood obesity in London, UK by the London Assembly's Health and Public Service Committee called Tipping the Scales. This report reveals that childhood obesity costs Londoners an eye watering 7.1 million pounds a year. Even worse, if this obesity trend is not reversed, these same children are projected to cost a staggering 111 million pounds a year on attaining adulthood. London has become the obese child capital of Britain - twenty per cent of London children are clinically obese, with the borough of Westminister -yes, where the Royal Wedding took place - worst hit (28 per cent) and leafy Richmond - Wimbledon country - least (12 per cent).

But obese adults cost London even more - a mind blowing 883.6 million pounds a year, according to the same report. No wonder James Claverly, Chair of the Health and Public Services Committee said "Childhood obesity is a major problem with serious health and economic consequences for London". No kidding! I wonder what the figures are like where you live? Why not do little research and find out? I will be interested to hear from you!

The cold hard truth is that this is a problem that is easily avoided. Proper nutrition, proper exercise are the mainstay, we know that. So why these staggering levels of obesity? This report offers a partial answer, at least in London - lack of focus of exercise initiatives ie not geared exclusively towards obesity reduction and poor coordination of these available initiatives. Maybe, but I believe the answer lies closer to home - that is, in families. I am going to be blunt - it is time for parents and guardians to be actually that - parents and guardians! If you cannot cope, seek expert help early - there will be less heart ache and cost for both you and your child in the long run. This scandal must come to an end - starting NOW. Our children's very lives depend on it, not just in London, but also elsewhere, especially in most advanced countries!


To your abundant excellent health,

Dr Ike
Holistic Health Coach and Functional Health Expert.

Sources:

-Edmonton Advertiser and Herald

-Tipping the Scales:Report published by the London Assembly's Health and Public Services Committee