Endocrine Abstracts

Childhood obesity prevalence continues at a high level in most developed economies and is rising strongly in emerging middle-income countries. This rise in prevalence shows strong links to the exposure of populations to mass-marketed foods and beverages and the use of motorised transport. In Europe the prevalence tends to be higher, and rising faster, among children from lower-income households. The prevention of obesity is essential but clearly we are not doing very well – no country in Europe has successfully and sustainably reduced childhood obesity prevalence. We need to ask: What are the major social, commercial and political barriers which need to be overcome? What steps can we take to overcome these barriers and create a truly health-promoting society?