Eight in ten middle-aged adults are either not exercising enough, drinking excessively or weigh too much according to Public Health England (PHE).

Officials say those between 40 and 60 years old are neglecting their health due to being too busy worrying about their children, ageing parents or work.

Figures from the Health Survey for England show that 77% of middle-aged men and 63% of women are either overweight or obese – with the rate of obesity increasing by 16% in the past two decades.

PHE recently launched campaign ‘One You’ to encourage adults to take control of their health to avoid future problems. Professor Sir Muir Gray, the campaign’s Clinical Adviser said: “The demands of modern day living are taking their toll on the health of the nation, and it’s those in middle-age that are suffering the consequences most, as their health reaches worrying new levels.

“Over 15 million Britons are living with a long-term health condition, and busy lives and desk jobs make it difficult to live healthily.

“But just making a few small changes will have significant benefits to people’s health now and in later life.”

PHE are urging people to take their ‘One You’ health quiz to highlight problems and areas for improvement.

Professor Kevin Fenton, Director of Health and Wellbeing at PHE, said: “People are busy with work, with families, with the daily grind and sometimes their own health is the least of their priorities.

“The How Are You quiz will help anyone who wants to take a few minutes to take stock and find out quickly where they can take a little action to make a big difference to their health.”

PHE said the diabetes rate among the middle-age group also doubled during the past two decades.

Dan Howarth, Head of Care at Diabetes UK, said: “We know that people often bury their heads in the sand when it comes to their general health but the consequences of doing nothing can be catastrophic.”

What are your views on the ‘One You’ campaign? Will this improve the overall health of middle-aged Britons? Get in touch:

T: 01277 217777
E: marketing@athona.com