Families need help in obesity fight

Scotland’s obesity epidemic shows no sign of easing. Two thirds of Scottish adults are overweight, while a fifth of children are similarly afflicted by the time they reach secondary school.

There are strong indications obesity rates are influenced by socio-economic status.

Figures released in June by NHS Health Scotland show 28% of men in deprived areas are obese, compared with 22% in more affluent areas.

The difference in women is even more stark – 21% compared to 37% in deprived areas.

Less well-off women and children are more likely to be affected by extreme obesity.

With increased weight comes higher risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other illnesses.

Statistics like these come as no surprise when one takes a look at the supermarket shelves, comparing the price of high-quality, fresh produce with that of processed, highsugar, high-fat goods.

Research commissioned by Cancer Research UK shows Scottish parents believe such offers are harming their families but cannot resist their lure. The Scottish Government has been asked to help but the difficulty in legislating has been shown in its bid to curb alcohol sales.

Ultimately, consumers will determine prices through their buying habits, but there is a role for supermarket giants in steering them in the right direction if possible.