Children are losing up to 20 years of healthy life because the Government is failing to tackle obesity, doctors leaders have warned.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) have criticised ministers’ ‘piecemeal’ approach to preventing long-term illness.
This includes a failure to impose a ban on junk food adverts or prohibit take-away outlets opening up near schools.
The College – which represents 17,500 doctors, nurses and other health experts – says many children are growing into obese adults, and developing type 2 diabetes.
Children are losing up to 20 years of healthy life because the Government is failing to tackle obesity, doctors leaders have warned
A third of children are overweight or obese at 11 and the rates are creeping up, despite Government promises to reduce them.
Amongst adults, 62 per overweight or obese including just over half of pregnant women.
A report by the RCPCH today states that although the Government has taken some steps – including introducing the sugar tax on soft drinks – the health of youngsters has remained ‘largely unchanged.’
Professor Nina Modi, the College’s president, said: ‘As a nation we’re not winning this battle.
‘An obese child is very likely is very likely to remain an obese adult. An obese adult is at risk of losing between ten and 20 years of healthy life, as well as the fact that life expectancy will be reduced as well.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) have criticised ministers’ ‘piecemeal’ approach to preventing long-term illness
‘We want to see children empowered to take responsibility for their own lives. They also need help for legislation and regulation, they shouldn’t be bombarded with advertisements for junk food.
‘We want girls and young men to be planning parenthood with a healthy weight and healthy lifestyle.’
Professor Russell Viner, RCPCH officer for health promotion, said: ‘Child health isn’t being given the political attention it deserves in Westminster, which is disappointing given the real commitments from the Scottish and Welsh Governments.
‘While policies such as the soft drinks industry levy and new tobacco control plan are to be applauded, the approach is piecemeal.’