More than half of adults are overweight - report

The number of obese or overweight adults has risen from 50% in 2022 to 54% in 2023

More than half of adults in Jersey are overweight or obese, a survey has found.

An obesity report produced by Public Health, found the number had risen from 50% in 2022 to 54% in 2023.

The report also found one in four children in reception and one in three in Year 6 were overweight or obese.

Weight problems were found to most likely affect children living in social rented accommodation when compared to those in rural parishes.

The report said less than one in three adults ate the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables per day, while 55% of adults met the recommended guidelines for physical activity.

Men had higher rates of obesity or of being overweight at 59% compared to 49% of women, and women were found more likely to eat the recommended number of fruits and vegetables.

Out of the average weekly food shop, which included food and non-alcoholic drinks, people spent about £16 out of £101 on fresh fruit and vegetables.

The report said physical activity levels were higher among those who "found it easier to cope financially", and added higher levels of activity decreased with age.

Public Health said while efforts were "being made to address these issues", a significant gap remained "between recommended behaviours and actual practices".

"By working collaboratively across sectors, we can strive towards a healthier future for all Jersey residents, where obesity rates decline, dietary habits improve, and physical activity levels increase, ultimately leading to enhanced well-being and reduced burden on healthcare systems," it said.