EVERY day we seem to hear about the ‘obesity crisis’ and it is clear that being overweight is a serious issue for our health and care services.

Evidence shows that people who are overweight are more at risk of developing significant health problems, such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, asthma and arthritis.

There is also evidence to suggest that as someone’s weight increases, so does the risk – so the heavier you are the more likely you are to become ill.

I know how difficult it is but there are many examples of people who have changed their lifestyle and lost a lot of weight.

Different people find different solutions, and there is no single solution that fits all.

Some people attend programmes like Weight Watchers or Slimming World and it’s important to increase your physical activity if you want to shed a few pounds.

There is also help and advice available from Health Improvement Practitioners and practice nurses at your local GP practice.

It’s never too late to make a positive change in your lifestyle, but I think it’s important to tackle the borough’s obesity situation at an early age – to help prevent our children developing problems in later life.

Bolton’s primary school leavers are above the national average when it comes to being overweight.

Sadly, the numbers of 10 and 11 year olds being classed as obese is on the rise.

Our schools do a great job in providing healthy meals and helping to educate families on the importance of healthy eating and physical exercise.

But we are looking at ways in which we can take the NHS into schools, to provide a fuller picture of how our lifestyle at an early age can impact on us and our health as we get older.