Obese Children are Losing Two Decades of Healthy Life
Children are losing up to 20 years of healthy life because the Government is failing to tackle obesity, doctors leaders have warned. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) have criticised ministers’ approach to preventing long-term illness.
The College – which represents 17,500 doctors, nurses and other health experts – says many children are growing into obese adults, and developing type 2 diabetes. A third of children are overweight or obese at 11 and the rates are creeping up, despite Government promises to reduce them.
A report by the RCPCH today states that although the Government has taken some steps - including introducing the sugar tax on soft drinks - the health of youngsters has remained largely unchanged. Professor Nina Modi, the College’s president, said: "As a nation we’re not winning this battle. An obese child is very likely is very likely to remain an obese adult. An obese adult is at risk of losing between ten and 20 years of healthy life, as well as the fact that life expectancy will be reduced as well."
We totally agree. Part of this change is to have a new generation who are more "every day" active. Walking, stair climbing, sitting less and standing more. That's why we're striving to promote our EIGER Student Standing Desks in classrooms all over the UK and create a new way of learning - actively.