‘Confusing’ obesity press coverage criticised
Press coverage of obesity adds to insurance difficulties by confusing the public, it has been suggested.
According to the National Obesity Forum (NOF), differing reports about the effect of obesity on health have led to the confusion.
NOF chair Dr Colin Waine criticised coverage claiming that obesity does not necessarily affect health, with consumers told conflicting stories from different sources.
"There is no doubt that the earlier in life you become obese the shorter is your life expectancy," stated Dr Waine.
He added that more consideration should be given to the knock-on effects of published claims suggesting obesity does not have an adverse effect on a person’s health.
Research by the government’s Foresight programme warned last month that a quarter of children, 60 per cent of men and 50 per cent of women in the UK will be obese by 2050 if current levels continue.
Positive aspects of England’s health pinpointed by the report, however, included an increase in life expectancy and a decline in deaths from cancer and circulatory disease.
The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people living with obesity
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