From Your Health Journal…..”I found a great media web site today called Wigan Today. As you know, I review various articles here, then give a ‘snip’ to the story, and a link where you can read the full article. I strongly urge you to read this local article, as it speaks on ‘national’ levels pertaining to the childhood obesity problem facing youth in the United States and the World. This article suggests how a local community is really investigating ways of obesity prevention, and solving the problem locally. As stated in the article, “This could lead to health problems in the future as 9 out 10 children may grow up with dangerous levels of fat in their bodies, putting them at greater risk of developing long-term health problems.” On the national level, we know that 1 in 3 children are obese or overweight, and 1 in 7 are obese. Small changes can make a big difference, whether cutting back on the liquid candy, going for daily walks, healthier meal / snack selections, and educating children on healthier lifestyles. Many local communities are making a difference, so please read this great article about a town called Wigan, and what they are doing to help children.”
From the article…..
One in five 11-year-olds in Wigan is technically obese, according to new figures.
A report released by the Health and Social Care Information Centre revealed that one in five (19.4 per cent) of year six children in the borough fell into this medical category in 2011/12.
While it is below the North West average of 19.8 per cent, there was another worrying statistic for health and education chiefs, when the figures revealed an increase in year six pupils deemed to be “overweight” from 15 per cent in 2010/11, to 16.2 per cent in 2011/12 – above the North West average of 15 per cent.
Overall, a third of children are currently overweight or obese.
The report revealed that just 8.6 per cent of children in reception were obese, meaning the number more than doubles by the time they reach the end of primary school in the borough.
Dr Kate Ardern, Director of Public Health for Wigan Borough said: “The increase in levels of obesity from early childhood into adulthood is a familiar story seen across all developed nations.
“Worryingly this trend is echoed in Wigan Borough where obesity in Year Six is double that seen in Reception aged children.
“Levels of obesity in Year Six aged children have remain stable at 19.4 per cent, however there has been an increase in overweight children to 16.2 per cent (from 15 per cent in 2010-11).
“It is important that we keep track of our children’s weight; in Wigan more than one in three children are currently overweight or obese.
“This could lead to health problems in the future as 9 out 10 children may grow up with dangerous levels of fat in their bodies, putting them at greater risk of developing long-term health problems. Work across Wigan Borough CCG and Wigan Council has led to the development of a pathway of Healthy Weight services for children and young people aged 0 to 18 years and their families.
To read the full article…..Click here