The N.O.F. welcomes the paper by Professor Jane Wardle and colleagues and considers it to be an important contribution to our understanding of the many issues contributing to the present epidemic of obesity which so threatens the future wellbeing of so many children.

 

However, the N.O.F. feels bound to point out that the conclusions can be used inappropriately by those who wish to deny the impact of the current obesogenic environment on the rising levels of childhood obesity.

 

It has to be pointed out that the human genotype has not significantly altered for millions of years, yet childhood obesity has only become apparent as a clinical problem in the last two decades. This rapid escalation in the prevalence of childhood and adolescent obesity has in fact coincided with the development of the current obesogenic environment!

 

For millions of years those with the genotype favouring the development of obesity did not succumb to it. I suggest that we have to reinforce the messages:

 

1.    The first is that it is an absolute imperative that effective measures are taken to favourably alter the current obesogenic environment

2.    Even if you have the genotype which can lead to obesity, a healthy lifestyle can prevent its development.

 

 

Colin Waine

Chair N.O.F