Study shows Finns seriously overweight in all parts of the country

Helsingin Sanomat issues anti-obesity challenge

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A recent study conducted by the National Public Health Institute indicates that Finns are seriously overweight in all parts of the country.
      Based on the division of the country into units of 100 square kilometres, the researchers noticed that people in each block were overweight, with the average body mass index being in excess of 25.
     
The most distinct differences were detected between the cities and the countryside. Eating more vegetables and fruit than other Finns, city people are slightly less obese, even though they also have excess body fat.
      As many as 66 per cent of Finnish men and around 50 per cent of women are overweight, while women are more frequently suffering from abdominal fat than men.
      Excess weight and obesity have been shown to increase the likelihood of certain diseases and other health problems. For example, excess body fat is a predictor of risk for Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and coronary heart disease.
     
In addition to expensive national obesity-related diseases, excess fat also brings other health consequences. For example, anaesthesia and surgery are more difficult and dangerous on overweight patients than on people of regular weight.
      Furthermore, obesity can have a detrimental effect on fertility treatments.
      "In fact, it is easier to prevent people from becoming overweight than it is to treat its consequences. Therefore, all possible ways to prevent obesity should be adopted", says researcher Minna Similä of the National Public Health Institute.
     
As fatness presents a worsening national health issue, Helsingin Sanomat is launching a series of articles on obesity and its consequences in Finland and abroad, and issuing a general "challenge to the weight-challenged".
      The first community being targeted is the municipality of Mäntsälä, some 60 kilometres from Helsinki, along the new railway line between Helsinki and Lahti.
      On March 1st, Helsingin Sanomat and Mäntsälä will arrange a joint public event for the local residents on the issue of weight-watching.


Previously in HS International Edition:
  Finnish study links heavy salt intake with obesity (2.11.2006)

Links:
  The National Public Health Institute

Helsingin Sanomat