This results in their chances of dying prematurely, developing coronary heart disease, having a heart attack, increased blood pressure, increased diabetes and becoming obese being significantly increased by a factor of 2-5.
Current statistics would suggest that 22-23% of the adult population are clinically obese and that the incidence of childhood obesity is significantly related to that of their parents and family. This is equally true to both boys and girls.
The onset of clinical obesity makes any kind of physical activity more difficult resulting in an even more sedentary lifestyle and therefore even a greater weight gain.
Dietary changes are the cornerstone of obesity control and when this is combined with an individually tailored exercise programme then sustainable weight loss can be achieved.
British Heart Foundation 2004
European Journal of Heart Failure 2006
Canadian Journal of Cardiology 2006
Paediatric International 2006
New Zealand Medical Journal 2006
B.M.C. Public Health 2006