Donate NowAccording to the World Health Organization, obesity has nearly doubled since 1980. Sixty-five percent of the world's population live in countries where being overweight or obese accounts for higher mortality than being underweight or malnourished.
In the United Kingdom, concern about obesity is rapidly increasing. The Foresight Report, conducted by the UK government, concluded that half the population could be obese by 2050, while independent organizations, such as the National Obesity Forum, predict that the number will be higher. The reports estimate that the obese population could cost the National Health Service (NHS) as much as 10 billion British pounds ($16 billion) by 2050.
This audio slideshow examines the growing debate over the causes of obesity. And while pressure mounts to find a resolution, London is slowly moving towards a healthier lifestyle. Other areas of the UK, however, tell a much different story.