More families are benefiting from knowing the facts about their child’s weight. Record numbers of children took part this year, with more than one million children in reception year (4-5 year olds) and year six (10-11 year olds) being weighed and measured.
The programme is now recognised as a world-class source of data, which helps local areas target services for children and families.
However, the levels of childhood obesity are still too high, with 22.8 per cent of Reception children and 32.6 per cent of Year 6 children being overweight or obese. This compares with 22.6 percent and 32.6 percent the previous year.
Public Health Minister, Gillian Merron said:
'Evidence is stacking up to show that child obesity is levelling off. This is thanks to the hard work of families, schools and the NHS across England, supported by Government initiatives such as Change4Life and Healthy Schools, and action from industry and local communities. 'It’s important to monitor children’s weight and wellbeing, and I’m glad that we achieved a 90% take up of the scheme. 'But we need to keep the momentum going. We'll only turn the tide on obesity for good if everyone plays their part.'
Parents are now sent letters informing them about their child’s weight. The letter is accompanied by advice and sources of further information on how to help their child maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.
Ann Stubbs, a single mum from Walsall, was one of thousands of parents who received letters. Since receiving the letter, Mrs Stubbs has made some small but significant changes to her family’s lifestyle.
She said:
'Receiving the letter was a real wake up call. I haven't made a big deal out of it, but we have now signed up to Change4life life and as a family, we are now trying to take more exercise together. We go walking, swimming and bike riding and I am not buying chocolate any more. The kids have a choice of fruit and yoghurt for dessert and fruit for snacks.'
The National Child Measurement Programme which has been running since 2005 has produced one of the largest collections of data on children’s height and weight in the world and can be used by local areas to help them target and allocate resources to tackle obesity.
Joanne Hudson, Healthy Weight Children's Lead, NHS Walsall, said:
‘In Walsall, we are committed to tackling childhood obesity, and the NCMP has been invaluable in helping us to plan and direct services to families who may be affected by this. Through the programme, we are providing additional services in schools and engaging with families on the issue of healthy weight.’
Last month, figures from the National Heart Forum also provided further evidence that prevalence of overweight and obese children is reaching a peak. Further data out next week from the Health Survey for England 2008, will also be crucial in assessing of trends.
For more information on the National Child Measurement Programme please visit the link below:
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publichealth/Healthimprovement/Healthyliving/DH_100123