What support have you received to help you maintain a healthy weight?

Public Health launches survey as 'two-thirds' of the Island's population overweight

With around two-thirds of the Island's population said to be overweight or obese, Public Health wants to hear about people's experiences of seeking help with weight management.

It's running a survey until 6 July to help inform a new 'Healthy Weight Needs Assessment', which will help to shape future services and support for the Island.

It asks questions like; what barriers people face when it comes to exercise and healthy food options, and whether they take weight-loss injections.

Director of Public Health Dr Matt Tyrer says: 'The latest Isle of Man Health and Lifestyle survey shows that 64 per cent of those who took part were overweight or obese. 

'Anonymous data from the recently launched health station in Ramsey shows a similar picture. Being overweight or underweight can have negative health and wellbeing implications and it is important the right support is available.'

The figure for those of us who're overweight or obese on the Island is said to be 'comparable' with the UK and other European countries.

Dr Tyrer told Manx Radio why Public Health is running this survey now:

On the 'Healthy Weight Needs Assessment', Cabinet Office Minister David Ashford says: 'This will help us build a clearer picture of weight health across the Island, including how many people are a healthy weight, underweight, overweight or obese, and how this compares with the UK.

'It will also look at the wider factors that influence people’s ability to maintain a healthy weight, from access to support and services to the barriers they may face in everyday life. This work will help us identify where improvements are needed so we can make more informed decisions about the services, support and policies required to improve health and wellbeing across our community.’

Anyone aged 18 or over and lives on the Isle of Man can take part in the survey.

You can find a link HERE.