RCPCH comments on National Childhood Obesity Week

In relation to National Childhood Obesity Week and following survey findings from Mend and Netmums, Dr Hilary Cass, President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said:

'There's no hiding from the fact that childhood obesity is a persistent problem in the UK - and overweight children are storing up future health problems. But we also have to take seriously the fact that many children are under-nourished, or struggle with eating disorders.

'Of course parents play a key role in making sure their children eat a healthy balanced diet - and it's important for children to get into good habits early. But we need to ensure that this is supported by schools, healthcare professionals and, crucially, the environment in which we live.

'That means open discussion about diet and exercise between doctors and patients, maintaining nutritional standards for schools meals - and teaching children how to cook - and looking into responsible advertising of junk food aimed at children. There is also a part to be played by celebrities and other figures who children look up to in promoting healthy eating.

'If we can get our children eating, choosing and ultimately cooking nutritious food, then we have a much better chance of preventing all sorts of dietary related problems - whether that's being over or underweight.'

Click here to read more about what the College is doing in relation to tackling obesity.