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Briefings: obesity and diet

After smoking, obesity is the second most important preventable cause of cancer, yet few people are aware that being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing the disease.

Cancer Research UK believes that a comprehensive strategy must be implemented urgently to halt the rise in obesity in the UK population, particularly in children and young adults. Co-ordinated policies are needed at national, regional and local level that impact on lifestyle factors including diet and physical activity, as well as tackling pricing, advertising and access to healthy food.

Food policy

Cancer Research UK advocates responsible food marketing and labelling. A code of advertising practice for the promotion of foods is needed, including a ban on the promotion of 'junk' food and drink during children's TV programming. This ban is needed due to the high level of advertising of food high in fat, salt or sugar directed at children.

Action will also be needed across all other areas of food marketing: food content, food price and food availability. This should include reducing the levels of fat, salt and sugar in foods. Clearer food labelling is needed to enable people to make informed decisions about their diet. This is especially relevant for food intended for consumption by children. The Government should continue to work with the Food Standards Agency to improve the labelling of food, and public understanding of what the labels mean.

For more detailed information on these issues, please read our policy statements on food labelling and advertising and promotion of food and drink to children.

Public education

Also important are clear, consistent and evidence-based messages for the public on healthy eating and sensible drinking. Sustained and well-funded public education campaigns are needed, including why and how to exercise dietary control and to increase awareness of appropriate portion sizes. The "5 a day" message, encouraging people to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day, needs consistent promotion.

Education on healthy eating in schools is essential and most effective when accompanied by a supportive environment. Public services, including hospitals and schools, should take a lead on providing healthy food options on their menus and promoting healthy lifestyle messages.

Alcohol

Drinking too much alcohol over time is also a risk factor for some cancers, especially when combined with smoking. It is important that the Government continues to promote sensible drinking guidelines - and ensure that people understand what these mean.

Consultations

Cancer Research UK has responded to several consultations on policy regarding obesity and food. To find out more about our responses to these consultations, please click on one of the links below: