80% of middle-aged people have health problems...

A SHOCKING 80% of middle-aged people either weigh too much, drink excessively or don’t exercise enough, a study shows.

Public Health England said four fifths of adults aged between 40 and 60 are putting themselves at risk of disease as busy lives and desk jobs make it increasingly hard to stay healthy.

PHE found nine in 10 men (87%) and eight in 10 women (79%) in the age range are not doing enough exercise, exceeding the recommended limits for alcohol, or are either overweight or obese.

The Health Survey for England found the proportion who are overweight has increased by 16% in the past 20 years, to 77% in men and 63% in women. Over the same period, diabetes rates have doubled.

PHE is launching a campaign to help those most at risk to get healthy in 2017. People who take its One You quiz and are flagged as having a problem, are directed to apps including Couch to 5K, Alcohol Checker and Easy Meals.

Prof Sir Muir Gray, of PHE said: “Over 15 million Britons are living with a long-term health condition, and busy lives and desk jobs make it difficult to live healthily.

“But just making a few small changes will have major benefits.”

And colleague Prof Kevin Fenton said: “The One You, How Are You Quiz will help anyone who wants to take a few minutes to take stock and find out quickly where they can take a little action to make a big difference to their health now and later.”