New 'fat map' shows obesity problem rise

A NEW "fat map" of the UK published today reveals the national obesity problem is spreading.

But people in Lothian are less likely to suffer from the problem than in other parts of the country.

Shetland emerges at the top of the table with more than 15.5 per cent of patients registered with a GP classed as obese. Camden in London came bottom of the table with a rate of just 3.9 per cent.

Lothian was ranked 175th with an obesity rate of 5.72 per cent. Only 13 areas had a better result.

The map, created by Dr Foster Research, suggests the problem may be getting worse when compared with a similar map published two years ago.

Although different methodology was used, researchers said the 2008 map is now revealing pockets of obesity in previously unexpected areas.

Alex Young, senior project manager at Dr Foster Research, said: "We need to wait a few more years before we can say definitely that things are getting worse but there does seem to be a growing problem in some areas.