Obesity-linked Deaths on the Increase

The number of people being killed by obesity-related illnesses has increased in England during the last decade.

Latest figures based on the analysis of death certificates by a team at the University of Oxford, and published in the European Journal of Public Health, revealed an annual rise in fat-linked deaths between 2000 and 2006.

On the death certificates, links to obesity rose by an average of 8% for men and 4% for women, year-on-year. And the researchers believe many more deaths may have been caused by obesity but not recorded.

This research has been published at a time when recent ministerial figures paint a similar picture, showing a jump from 358 obesity-related deaths in 2000 to 757 in 2009, with directly linked deaths in people under 65 rising from 88 in 2000 to 190 in 2009. In addition, the Scottish government has warned that 40% of Scots might be obese by 2030 unless things change.

Approximately 25% of UK adults are currently obese.  

Professor Alan Maryon-Davis, president of the Faculty of Public Health, said people in the so-called early stages of obesity often did not realise the risks that being overweight pose. He said: “People do not realise how closely linked it is with serious conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and diabetes. We have to take obesity seriously.” (Source)

There are a number of strategies which can be adopted to help ensure your weight returns to and remains at a healthy level.

•    Eat well
Make sure you are eating enough fruit and vegetables on a daily basis as these provide you with the necessary nutrients. They will also curb your appetite for sugary or fatty snacks, helping to keep calories down in-between meals. Make sure you eat a good breakfast, lunch and dinner too, making use of fresh ingredients like fish, eggs, potatoes and beans.

•    Exercise regularly
You should be doing a minimum of 30-minutes exercise five times a week which leaves you slightly out of breath and raises your heart rate. If your health permits it – always check with your doctor first – incorporate at least two intense cardio sessions into your weekly routine too.

•    Get help!
With your fitness, that is. You could consider using a personal trainer to help keep you motivated and create an exercise routine tailored to your needs, ability and goals. Another way to boost your weight loss and fitness level is boot camps. Fitness boot camps provide you with the advice, support and inspiration you need to stay fit and healthy – as well as giving you a thorough workout which leaves you feel exhausted and exhilarated.

Vanessa Alexander 

Esteem Fitness