Children could die before parents

THERE now are more overweight people than undernourished, organisers of an international obesity conference claim.The escalating problem, particularly in children, could make today's generation the first to die before its parents.
More than 2500 delegates are in Sydney for the International Congress.
British psychologist Professor Andrew Hill today will outline new research that shows obese 11-year-olds are four times more likely than their lean peers to have poor self-image.
"Those already overweight or obese need immediate and expert help to reduce their overweight," he said. "The weight-hostile environment in which children grow up is potentially toxic for their self-regard and psychological well-being."
Professor Hill said obesity was viewed as a physical rather than a psychological disorder, despite wide acknowledgement society rejected obesity and stigmatised the overweight.
Adolescents who suffered low self-esteem also could develop depression if they carried their obesity into adulthood, he said.
Conference co-chairman Professor Ian Caterson said the meeting would deal with obesity as the "keystone of all health priorities". "We know this is not about gluttony. It is the interaction of heredity and environment," he said.
Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows almost 70,000 extra South Australian adults have joined the growing ranks of obesity since 2001. In 2004-05, 18 per cent, or about 202,800, were obese; 32 per cent, or about 370,000, were overweight.
In 2001, 15 per cent, or about 168,400, were obese and 30 per cent, or about 335,800, were overweight.
Campbelltown mother-of-three Kerry Scerri is conscious of protecting her children from becoming obese or overweight.
"I put on extra weight and I know what it's like to feel uncomfortable with yourself, feel unhappy and wonder what people are saying about you," said Mrs Scerri, who has been a life member of Jenny Craig for 15 years.
"I don't want to put my kids through that."
The Dietitians Association of Australia has called on the Federal Government to:
RECOGNISE obesity as a chronic disease under Medicare.
PROVIDE a significant financial commitment to help struggling Australian families get the skills and support they need to feed their families properly.