Rising child obesity raises health concerns for future

kentishgazette@thekmgroup.co.uk be more active, to have healthy diets and also more specialist programmes to help families lose weight in a fun way.

“Now public health sits within KCC, there are many more opportunities to work across departments to tackle the wider issues that contribute to obesity.

“Nationally, there does seem to be a correlation between the areas of highest deprivation and higher levels of childhood obesity.”

The number of children classed as obese has more than doubled in the past 30 years.

Canterbury public health nutritionist Lisa Mabbs runs the Ready, Steady, Go club, encouraging families to eat healthier and exercise more.

She says there is no particular reason why children are getting heavier, adding: “It’s just what’s happening. The environment has lots to answer to and we need to look at whether there are suitable parks in the area.

“We want children to maintain a healthy weight through establishing really good habits in the long term. It’s about eating well, moving more and living longer.”

Any families who are interested in accessing the healthy living campaign should call free on 0800 849400, selecting option 5.

Are you concerned about childhood obesity? Email kentishgazette@ thekmgroup.co.uk or write to Gazette House, 5-8 Boorman Way, Wraik Hill, Whitstable, CT5 3SE.

The number of children classed as obese has more than doubled in the past 30 years