Obesity remains a 'significant health challenge' as latest figures revealed
OBESITY remains a 'significant public health challenge' in Dorset as almost a quarter of residents live with the condition.
The latest figures published by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities has shown that 24.3 per cent of residents in the Dorset Council area were living with obesity last year.
Obesity is a medical condition defined by having an excessive amount of body fat -a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher - and despite a reduction in numbers of people living with the condition from the previous year (28.9 per cent), the health issue remains higher than pre pandemic levels and is a still a concern.
To tackle the issue, Dorset Council says it it working closely with its partners in the health and leisure sectors to help people make healthy choices.
Rachel Partridge, acting director for public health and prevention at Dorset Council (Image: Public Health Dorset) Rachel Partridge, acting director for public health and prevention at Dorset Council, said: 'We welcome the latest data from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, which shows a positive reduction in obesity levels across the Dorset Council area.
"While it is encouraging to see a drop from 28.9 per cent to 24.3 per cent over the past year, obesity remains above pre-pandemic levels and continues to pose a significant public health challenge. 'We recognise that reducing obesity requires a whole-system approach. We are working closely with NHS partners in Dorset, Active Dorset, schools, and community organisations to create environments and opportunities that make healthy choices easier for everyone."
Dorset Council already has several initiatives and projects underway to help improve people's health and wellbeing.
This includes a £2 million investment into the Redland Leisure Centre in Weymouth to improve its facilities.
The council is also trying to encourage more people to use the Beryl bike scheme that was brought to Weymouth, Portland and Dorchester last year as well other cycling and walking initiatives.
Dorset Council is encouraging people to make healthier lifestyle choices in order to help reduce obesity across the county (Image: Canva) The council spokesperson added: 'Dorset Council is committed to helping residents live healthier lives and reducing health inequalities, including supporting people to maintain a healthy weight. Tackling obesity is complex and requires action from individuals, communities, and all levels of government.
"Physical activity plays a vital role, and we're investing in this through the £2 million redevelopment of Redlands Leisure & Community Park, expanding Dorset Health Walks, and encouraging cycling via the Beryl Bike Scheme and our 'Get Back in the Saddle' initiative.
"Our goal is to build a healthier Dorset where all residents can thrive. This includes promoting and encouraging the use of our beautiful blue and green spaces.
'We are also proud of the LiveWell Dorset service which offers free behavioural support for weight management and physical activity."
The council also has an 'Active 4 Health hub' to connect people with tailored physical activity opportunities to support both physical and mental wellbeing.
Looking ahead, the council says it is also exploring further opportunities for community-based health and leisure programmes, with a strong focus on prevention and early intervention.
To find out more about the council's health and activity initiatives visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/sport-leisure/getting-active-schemes-and-groups/health-and-activity
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