Europeans see obesity increasing

Europeans think there are more obese adults and children today than there were five years ago, according to a new poll by the European Union, November 2006. Most Europeans consider themselves to be in good health, but 38% feel they are overweight, according to the results of the latest Eurobarometer on Health, Food and Nutrition presented by the European Commission. The survey, which reveals that 95% of EU citizens agree that obesity is harmful for health, addresses the health and physical characteristics of Europeans, their diet and general eating habits, problems related to being overweight, and their physical activity levels. Eating more vegetables and less fat are the most frequent changes that Europeans say they are introducing in their eating habits. However, most respondents report feeling trapped in a sedentary life that restricts their attempts to lead a healthy lifestyle. Less than 30% of Europeans carry out “intensive” physical activity on a regular basis. Most Europeans (85%) feel public authorities should play a stronger role in fighting obesity. Nine out of ten Europeans feel that marketing and advertising influence children in their food and drink choices.

European Commission: Press Release: IP/06/1531: Commission presents Eurobarometer on Health, Food and Nutrition http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/06/1531&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en

European Commission: DG Health and Consumer protection: Public health: Eurobarometers about Public Health issues http://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_publication/eurobarometers_en.htm

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