Who will take responsibility for obesity in Australia?

Abstract

Obesity is increasing throughout the world. With its strong links to many health problems, the costs associated with obesity will strain future health budgets. Urgent action on obesity is needed and this needs to extend beyond treatment. Diets may work in the short term but their long-term success is poor. Bariatric surgery can be effective, but it is expensive and its long-term effects are unknown. Common sense dictates that attention should be focused on preventing obesity. Experience with other public health measures, such as reducing cigarette smoking, indicates that government intervention will be essential for success in preventing obesity. In practice, however, governments are reluctant to take responsibility for this multi-factorial problem that is exacerbated by modern lifestyles because it involves standing up to vested interests. The real need is to take action to alter food consumption patterns, change transport options and reform urban planning (including housing and workplace environments), so that healthy choices are easy and physical activity returns to being a normal part of everyday life.