Commenting on figures in the Welsh Health Survey showing an increased number of overweight and obese adults, Professor John Williams, senior college officer for Wales, said:
It is disappointing that the number of overweight and obese adults has risen this year. I hope this is the wake-up call we need.
In our recent report, Action on obesity, we recommended the appointment of an obesity lead in every hospital. These doctors can provide information and act as the link between the local health board, patients and the community. We’ve also called for new multidisciplinary teams, made up of physicians, surgeons, nurses and other health professionals, to help those with severe and complex obesity across Wales.
Clinicians see the devastating impact of the obesity epidemic every day and we know that there is no easy fix. We need to use every available tool to change the way we live, which is why we have asked the Welsh government to take a more joined up approach, looking at everything from active travel to public health legislation.
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