Almost a quarter of UK GPs are seeing obese children aged four and under | Obesity

Almost a quarter of UK GPs are seeing obese children aged four and under | Obesity

January 25, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Health

A recent survey of UK family doctors reveals a growing concern: a significant number of very young children are experiencing obesity. The findings highlight not only the prevalence of the condition but also the challenges healthcare professionals face in addressing it with families.

Rising Rates of Childhood Obesity

According to the survey, almost a quarter (23%) of GPs have seen children aged four and under who are obese. This figure rises dramatically when looking at older children, with nearly half (49%) of GPs reporting they’ve seen cases of obesity in boys and girls up to the age of seven – including a small number younger than one year old. Over eighty percent (81%) of doctors surveyed have encountered obesity in children between their first birthday and age eleven.

Did You Know? The survey included responses from 540 family doctors regarding their experiences with managing obesity and the increasing use of weight loss drugs.

Difficult Conversations

Despite the clear need to address childhood obesity, GPs report significant difficulty in initiating conversations about weight with children and their parents. Four out of five (80%) doctors find it challenging to discuss weight and health with parents of children under 16, with only 10% finding it easy. Nearly two-thirds (65%) experience similar difficulty speaking directly with the young people themselves, with just 20% reporting ease in these discussions.

Concerns about causing upset (72%), anger (47%), complaints (24%), or feelings of shame and stigma (74%) are major barriers. Doctors also worry that discussing weight with children could contribute to the development of disordered eating habits.

Expert Insight: The reluctance of GPs to initiate these conversations underscores the sensitive nature of addressing weight, particularly with families already facing complex challenges like poverty and limited access to healthy food options. A supportive and empathetic approach is crucial, but the fear of negative reactions remains a significant obstacle.

Broader Implications and Emerging Trends

Dr. John Holden, chief medical officer at MDDUS, described the findings as “an alarming confirmation of the growing crisis of childhood obesity” and the difficulties it presents in routine consultations. The survey also revealed concerns about the inappropriate use of weight loss drugs, with two-thirds (67%) of GPs reporting patients obtaining these medications privately despite not meeting eligibility criteria. Some patients with pre-existing conditions, such as anorexia nervosa, are reportedly accessing these drugs through private pharmacies.

The vast majority of GPs (92%) believe obesity will be a defining public health challenge during their careers, and 95% anticipate it will significantly impact the NHS’s ability to deliver care. However, a majority (59%) believe weight loss jabs could potentially save the NHS money, while 22% disagree.

The Department of Health and Social Care stated that the government is taking action through measures like restricting junk food advertising and empowering local authorities to limit fast food outlets near schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of GPs have seen obese children under the age of five?

Almost a quarter (23%) of GPs surveyed reported seeing children aged zero to four where obesity was a clinical concern.

Why do many GPs find it difficult to discuss weight with families?

Four out of five (80%) GPs find it challenging to talk to parents of obese children, fearing they may become upset, angry, or file a complaint, or that it may cause shame or stigma.

What are GPs observing regarding the use of weight loss drugs?

GPs are seeing patients obtain weight loss drugs privately despite not meeting eligibility requirements, and some patients with pre-existing conditions, like anorexia nervosa, are also accessing these medications through private pharmacies.

As childhood obesity continues to be a pressing public health issue, it is possible that further interventions and support systems will be needed to address the complex factors contributing to this trend. It is also likely that discussions surrounding access to and regulation of weight loss medications will continue to evolve.