AM calls for action on obesity

Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has called for more support to tackle obesity in Wales as figures show that 57% of adults are classed as overweight.

Commenting on the figures, Welsh Liberal Democrat Mick Bates said: "It is good news that child obesity in England is levelling off. However, in Wales we have some of the highest rates of childhood obesity and we are the fattest nation in the UK, with 57% of adults classed as overweight or obese.

"Welsh Government figures for last year show that there were over 540 referrals for obesity surgery that year, but only 94 cases for treatment were approved and 50 are still in treatment at two hospital trusts in England.

"I am deeply concerned that the criteria for treatment are too strict, as too many patients are referred for treatment and then declined. The cost of continuing care for patients who suffer from related issues such as failing joints or mental health far outweighs the cost of timely intervention, so it is crucial to take address to address this problem as early as possible.

"It is vital that we see strong action to improve the provision of bariatric treatment in Wales, so that more patients are given support and not referred to England or declined treatment altogether but receive better care here in Wales."