MP GIVES HEALTHY LIVING HIS VOTE OF APPROVAL (Cheltenham Liberal Democrats)

Cheltenham Liberal Democrats <info@cheltlibdems.org.uk>

MP GIVES HEALTHY LIVING HIS VOTE OF APPROVAL

February 15, 2008 12:18 PM

Martin Horwood gets his BMI measured

Cheltenham's MP Martin Horwood took a break from heavyweight politics when he had his Body Mass Index (BMI) measured at an event organised by Cancer Research UK in Parliament.

It was part of a drive to raise awareness of the impact of obesity on cancer risk and the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.

Cancer Research UK also spoke to Martin about a recent survey conducted by the charity which found that 65 per cent of people questioned were unaware that being overweight or obese would increase an individual's risk of developing cancer.

Martin said: "I'm really concerned that many people are not aware that changes to their diet and maintaining an active lifestyle could improve their health and reduce their risk of developing cancer.

"I learnt a lot talking to Cancer Research UK experts and would encourage people to visit the charity's website - www.reducetherisk.org.uk - to find out more information."

Sara Hiom, Cancer Research UK's director of health information, said: "The evidence linking obesity and being overweight to an increased risk of cancer is compelling. Research shows that around 12,000 people every year might avoid getting cancer if they maintained a healthy body weight.

"Cancer Research UK in partnership with Weight Concern developed a program called Ten Top Tips to provide straightforward advice to help people lose weight safely in a way that can fit around everyday life. For example, the tips include taking a brisk walk every day and exercising caution with food portion sizes."

For Cancer Research UK's advice on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle visit www.reducetherisk.org.uk