A weight loss group in Peterborough says obesity can lead number severe health problems

It's as two thirds of adults are classed as overweight or obese

Author: Aaliyah DublinPublished 12th Jan 2025
Last updated 12th Jan 2025

A weight loss group in Peterborough encourage people to chose a healthier lifestyle.

The cost of obesity in the UK has soared from £58 billion in 2020 to £98 billion, with two thirds of adults being overweight or obese.

It's a major contributor to a lot of cancers

A survey by Slimming World has revealed 50% of UK adults say they’ve put off even trying to lose weight, with six in 10 of those aged under 27 the most likely to delay.

More than one in five people say they’ve delayed losing weight for three years or more.

More than half of the members surveyed said that they’d had feelings of doubt, uncertainty and a lack of motivation and control for more than a year, and for some people 10 years or more.

Many say delaying has impacted their health and caused them to gain even more weight.

Obesity can also impact mental health.

I felt useless; I felt stupid and unworthy of attention

Lesley Edwards, Slimming World consultant in Peterborough, said:

"We have changed over the last 20 or 30 years to a society with takeaways, fast food, and a sedentary lifestyle, so I think it's a combination of all of those elements."

"I've noticed when I'm out shopping fruit and veg can be so expensive."

"If you think a bag of apples is £2 or £3 but you can get a frozen pizza for a pound, I completely understand why people choose that option."

"I think there is a lot of bias against people who are overweight, and sometimes they're looked on unfavourably."

"Before I joined Slimming World, I felt useless; I felt stupid and unworthy of attention."

"One of the sad things about obesity is it's a major contributor to a lot of cancers."

"Having a healthier lifestyle means you will be able to be more active, and then you can build up your body and your strength."

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