Invest in school nurses to tackle long term obesity says RCN

Published: 26 February 2009

The Royal College of Nursing is urging the Government to invest in specialists and school nurses who can help children avoid obesity from an early age.

The comments come as the NHS Information Centre released statistics which indicated the number of people in England having obesity surgery has risen by 40% in the last year.

The College is expressing ‘deep concern’ that the number of people requiring surgery for obesity has risen so sharply. RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter says:

“Obesity is this country’s single biggest health issue and is threatening the short and long-term health and wellbeing of the two thirds of adults, and a third of children, who are overweight or obese.

Obesity is everyone’s business and we need a collaborative approach to address this growing issue of concern. It is an absolute tragedy that the obesity crisis appears to be worsening, and will impact on the long-term health of an even greater number of people”.

The NHS Information Centre publication provides information on attitudes towards and knowledge about leading a healthy lifestyle for both adults and children.