The majority of British women have waists that are larger than the
recommended size, according to new research.
Nuffield Health revealed that the average waist size of females in the UK is
now 84.9cm, while doctors believe a healthy measurement to be 80cm.
The charity's report analysed data from over 30,000 British women and found 57
per cent had a waist larger than this recommended size.
"Whilst waist size may seem like a cosmetic issue, this isn't about women
fitting into their skinny jeans. Rather, it's an important indicator of overall
health and well-being," said Dr Davina Deniszczyc, professional head of
physicians and diagnostics at the group.
She explained that fat being stored around the waist can lead to an increased
risk of breast cancer and reduce fertility.
According to a government-commissioned Foresight report, if current trends
continue, 50 per cent of women and 60 per cent of men in the UK would be not
just overweight, but clinically obese by 2050.
Private treatment news: 26 June 2012
