More than one-in-five P1 pupils in Tayside obese or overweight

More than one-in-five primary one pupils in Tayside are obese.

However, the number of children in the health board region seen by specialists for being overweight is at a fiveyear low.

Around three youngsters a week are being referred in the region for the treatment.

The youngest included a child under the age of one being helped in the last 12 months.

Figures released by NHS Tayside reveal there were 165 referrals to the Paediatric Overweight Service Tayside (POST), which treats people under 18 in the region who have a weight problem. This is down from 193 the previous year.

The numbers peaked in 2015-16, when 241 children were referred to the service.

About 22% of primary oneage children in the region are now classed as overweight or obese.

Dr Laura Stewart, Tayside weight management lead, said balanced meals and limiting screen time on electronic devices could tackle the issue.

Anyone who has a concern about their child’s weight can call Post on 01738 473784 or email post.tayside@nhs.net

Around three youngsters a week are being referred in the region for the treatment.