Ipswich childhood obesity rate higher than England average despite improvements

The big picture: Around 395 year 6 pupils in Ipswich were classified as obese or severely obese in the 2022-23 academic year, according to new data from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities.

By the numbers:

• Ipswich's obesity rate dropped from 25.2% to 23.4% year-on-year

• 5.9% of Ipswich year 6 pupils are severely obese

• National average stands at 22.1%, down from 22.7%

• Pre-pandemic rate was 21% in 2019-20

Why it matters: Professor Simon Kenny, NHS England's national clinical director for children and young people, describes obesity as a "ticking health time bomb" that affects every organ and increases risks of:

• Type 2 diabetes

• Cancer

• Mental health issues

Between the lines: Children from England's most deprived areas are twice as likely to be living with obesity compared to those from the least deprived areas.

What they're saying: Dr Helen Stewart from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health called the inequality "impossible to ignore," adding that "successive governments have failed to tackle" this health disparity.

Solutions in focus: The Local Government Association wants:

• Sugar tax revenue targeted at deprived areas

• Tax extended to milkshakes and high-sugar drinks

• Tax extended to cakes, biscuits and chocolate

The bottom line: While Ipswich has shown improvement in childhood obesity rates, the figures remain concerning. Health experts argue that addressing poverty and economic inequality is crucial to tackling the issue effectively.