Childhood obesity rates fall for second year running in Leeds

Childhood obesity rates in Leeds have fallen for the second consecutive year, according to new figures from Leeds City Council.

The council’s annual National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) found that in 2023–24, 9.1 per cent of reception-aged children (four to five years old) in the city were living with obesity, the lowest rate recorded since 2016–17.

Among year six pupils (aged ten to eleven), obesity rates dropped from 23.3 per cent in 2022–23 to 22.2 per cent in 2023–24.

The decline in Leeds bucks the national and regional trends. Across England, obesity among reception-aged children rose from nine point two per cent to nine point six per cent, while in Yorkshire and the Humber it increased from 9.9 per cent to 10.7 per cent.

The NCMP, a statutory public health programme, measures the height and weight of reception and year six pupils in state-maintained schools each year. In 2023–24, a total of 18,151 children in Leeds took part.

Despite the overall fall, gender disparities remain, with boys more likely than girls to be living with obesity in both age groups.

In the city’s most deprived areas, reception-aged children saw a small drop in obesity rates, from 12.3 per cent to 12.2 per cent. However, rates among year six pupils in these communities rose slightly, from 28 per cent to 28.3 per cent.

The council said the cost-of-living crisis has widened health inequalities, with low-income families more likely to rely on cheaper, calorie-dense foods.

Leeds has pursued a city-wide approach to tackling obesity for more than a decade, through initiatives including healthy pregnancy programmes, breastfeeding support, parenting courses and improvements to school food. Measures have also included restricting junk food advertising on council-controlled spaces, promoting active travel, improving access to green spaces and increasing healthier menu options in council-run cafés.

Councillor Fiona Venner, executive member for equalities, health and wellbeing, said:
“Leeds has been committed for over fifteen years to supporting families and children living with obesity. By using our cross-council powers, such as restricting junk food adverts and creating healthier menus, we can help turn the curve on current trends and improve health outcomes for children and adults in Leeds.”

Victoria Eaton, the city’s director of public health, added:
“Childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of the twenty-first century. While it is encouraging to see obesity rates fall for the second year running, we know there is always more to do. Our vision remains for every child in the city to be a healthy weight and live in an environment that supports a healthier life.”