Hospitals saw a hefty rise in the number of people admitted for obesity last year.
The increase in just 12 months was 60% – and the number has shot up nearly NINE times in 10 years.
The NHS Information Centre, which released the figures, said: “The report highlights the impact of obesity on society and the NHS.”
The report said there were 5,020 admissions in 2007-08 in England with a primary diagnosis of obesity. This rose 60% to 7,990 in 2008/09.
It is more than eight times higher than the 950 recorded in 1998/9. There was also a dramatic rise in the number having surgery on the NHS to beat obesity – such as stomach stapling or gastric bands.
Figures more than doubled between 2006/07 and 2008/09, from 1,950 procedures to 4,220.
Those looking to adopt a healthier lifestyle and lose weight in 2010 can come for a consultation with an expert bariatric surgeon at The Hospital Group.
The Hospital Group is the UK’s biggest provider of weight loss surgery, including gastric bands, gastric bypasses and gastric balloons.
David Ross, Chief Executive of The Hospital Group said: “Being overweight or obese can dramatically reduce your quality of life.
“Gastric procedures can help people who have struggled losing weight – as well providing lasting results.
“Our consultants ensure that, as well as having an absolute need for a gastric procedure, the patient understands that weight loss surgery isn’t a miracle cure and they would need to work with the band to achieve the healthier lifestyle they desire. “
