Roscommon-Galway TD welcomes commitment on new plan for tackling obesity

A Roscommon-Galway TD and medical doctor has welcomed a commitment from the incoming Government to develop a new policy around the issue of obesity.

One of the public health aims in the Programme for Government, which was agreed between Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Regional Independents, is to "create a new obesity policy and action plan".

This was welcomed by Fianna Fáil's TD Dr Martin Daly, who emphasised the need for an updated, evidence-based approach to tackling this issue in Ireland.

Dr Daly said he supports aligning national efforts with the recent recommendations from the Lancet Commission on obesity.

The Lancet Commission, involving 58 global experts, has called for a shift in how obesity is diagnosed and treated, recommending a new classification: Clinical Obesity, where organ function is impaired, and Pre-Clinical Obesity, where individuals are at risk but still functioning normally.

The report also highlights the limitations of Body Mass Index as a diagnostic tool, advocating for a more comprehensive approach.

"The findings of the Lancet Commission must inform our national obesity strategy," stated Dr Daly. "Moving from a focus on weight loss to overall health improvement is crucial to delivering better outcomes for individuals."

With an estimated 1.25 million people, 24 per cent of the Irish population, living with obesity, the current national strategy, 'A Healthy Weight for Ireland: Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016 to 2025', has introduced initiatives such as the sugar-sweetened drinks tax and healthy eating guidelines.

However, Dr Daly believes the next phase must go further in addressing obesity as a complex health issue.

He said a tailored, patient-centred approach was needed, focusing on prevention and early intervention while ensuring access to appropriate treatments.

Dr Daly emphasised that addressing obesity requires a collaborative effort between government, healthcare professionals and the public to create an environment that supports healthier lifestyles.

He said he was committed to working with policymakers and health professionals to ensure the future obesity plan "delivers meaningful and effective outcomes for individuals and communities across Ireland".