By House of Commons Library (2015)
Sugars can be added to food and drinks or occur naturally in fruit, vegetables and milk. A high sugar diet increases the risk of tooth decay and weight gain, and high consumption of sugar sweetened drinks is associated with type 2 diabetes. This paper describes trends in sugar consumption in the UK, the public health implications and outlines policy options
By Fit for Sport (2015)
In 2014, Fit For Sport conducted a simple physical activity test to assess key indicators of health and physical literacy of primary age children in 80 schools across the UK. This report includes some of the key findings.
By Local Government Association (2015)
This report argues that health problems associated with being overweight or obese cost the country £5 billion per year, with numbers of people with obesity predicted to more than double in the next 40 years. It warns that councils do not have enough money in their public health budgets to properly tackle obesity once mandatory services such as sexual health and drug and alcohol services have been paid for. The report calls for a fifth of existing VAT raised on sweets, crisps, takeaway food and sugary drinks to go to boost council-run grassroots initiatives with a proven track record, such as leisure activities and health awareness campaigns.
Salawi et al. BMC Pediatrics, 2014; 14:154
The objective of our study was to examine differences in demographic, anthropometric, cardiometabolic, and lifestyle variables in children and youth with SO versus their less overweight/obese (OW/OB) peers.
McFadden, A. et al. BMC Public Health, 2014; 14:148
Good nutrition is important during pregnancy, breastfeeding and early life to optimise the health of women and children. It is difficult for low-income families to prioritise spending on healthy food. Healthy Start is a targeted United Kingdom (UK) food subsidy programme that gives vouchers for fruit, vegetables, milk, and vitamins to low-income families. This paper reports an evaluation of Healthy Start from the perspectives of women and health practitioners.
By London Assembly (2014)
This report finds that almost half a million Londoners are living with Type 2 diabetes and that the figure is set to increase exponentially over the coming years. It aims to find out what is driving the increase in Type 2 diabetes across London, and how the delivery of diabetes care is managed and where improvements can be made in providing that care.
By Design Council (2014)
This guide looks at how the design of buildings and public spaces in cities and towns can lead to positive changes in our lifestyle and ultimately to greater levels of physical activity. It outlines the key facts which detail the problems of inactivity; examples of action which could be taken; and suggestions for different sectors and professions.
By Department of Health (2014)
As well as presenting data and evidence, the report also comments on overarching trends. This year, information in the report suggests that we may need to rethink what is regarded as ‘normal’ in relation to our health and our society. Some of the main themes discussed in the report are obesity, national data on blindness and deafness and active travel.
Burgoine, T. BMJ 2014;348:g1464
The Independent reports that “encountering too many takeaway outlets near our homes, workplaces and even on the daily commute to work could be increasing our risk of obesity”. The headline is based on a new study looking at whether the density of fast food outlets in some areas is contributing towards the obesity epidemic. This ‘Behind the headlines’ article examines the evidence behind the reports.
By Royal College of Surgeons of England (2014)
The guide is intended to assist clinical commissioning groups in commissioning these services and reduce variation in access to weight-loss clinics across the country.