1billion people are overweight

A billion people are overweight and at least 300million are clinically obese, it was claimed yesterday.

Processed and fast food as well as changing lifestyles are adding to the problem, the World Health Organisation said.

It blamed the popularity of food and drink high in fat, sugar and salt, and falling levels of physical activity for the rise in diet-related diseases.

Fewer families eat meals together and more children spend time at the TV or computer rather than outdoors, it said.

The problem is particularly acute in cities, where people are more likely to eat 'energy-dense' food and take less exercise, the report warns.

In Britain, obesity in men has more than doubled, from eight per cent in the 1980s to 17 per cent, while in women it has soared from nine per cent to 21 per cent.

Among children in England, nearly one in five is overweight, according to a 1998 survey by the Department of Health.

Fewer youngsters walk or cycle to school, said Dr Derek Yach, executive director of non-communicable diseases at the WHO. In addition, schools are doing fewer physical activities.

People should eat no more than five grams of salt a day, have at least 400 grams of fruit and vegetables, cut fat intake and do an hour of exercise, the WHO added.

About 1billion people in the world are starving, according to the United Nations. About 24,000 die from hunger each day.