New obesity fears for under-fives

CHILDREN aged under five are being treated for obesity-related illnesses such as diabetes, asthma and gallstones, figures reveal.

- Lucy Johnston

Experts are urging the Government to take immediate action to tackle the problem.

Hospital admissions data shows that in the 12 months to April, nine children aged up to four, 27 aged five to 11 and 133 aged between 12 and 17 were diagnosed with diabetes, with obesity certified as the root cause.

Eight years ago no children under five had diabetes caused by obesity and only eight in the five to 11 category. There were 35 with the condition under 18.