Britain is the most unhealthy nation in Europe, as far as obesity is concerned. Now research has shown that besides traditional illnesses associated with obesity, such as type two diabetic and heart problems, liver problem, the deadly cirrhosis and liver cancer will affect obese, overtaking alcohol as the main reason for developing such illnesses in five years’ time. While government is addressing alcohol problem, making “Drink and Drive” a social taboo, it seems health crisis fuelled by obesity escapes close scrutiny. This may pose serious problems for NHS with more patients needing treatment for cirrhosis as well as liver and kidney transplant. Build-up of fat in the body is one of the most serious health problems of the modern time, as it practically affects every organ, especially liver and heart, both are important organs to stay healthy.
Although we associate obesity with fast food and sugar intake, there are vast and varied reasons and one of them is our life-style. Those who remember sixties will know hardly one in ten household used to have a car. Streets were empty of cars and parking problem was not even on the horizon. Car was a luxury not many could afford. Now most families have at least two cars. Same goes with TV in every room. Only FA cup final was shown live on TV besides international matches in sixties, in black and white. Today our screens are covered with live sports twenty four hours a day. Parks and open spaces were overflowing with children playing sports, picnicking and families having wonderful time, especially during summer time, with up to sixteen hours of day-light. Today children’s time is taken by ipad, mobile phones, computer games and socializing on internet. It is time for the government, society, schools, NHS and parents to tackle obesity before it is too late!
Kumudini Valambia
By email
