Obesity is increasing rapidly in adolescents

The lead researcher, Robert Fletcher, said that although the study did not examine the reasons behind the increase in the disease, he felt that there were three key factors.

Adults in their 20s and 30s grew up during the unhealthy food market, he said.

“Growing up, they were surrounded by unhealthy food. As these age groups grow up, takeaways and fast food outlets have become more common on our highways.”

He said that the epidemic caused by the high cost of living is bound to have a big impact on the youth.

He added, “The stress of caring for children while working from home and then being able to afford healthy food as prices rise have made healthy lifestyles difficult.”

Sarah Perman of the Association of Public Health Directors agreed. Unhealthy options now dominate “our supermarkets, corner shops and fast food outlets,” she said.

“From an early age, children and young people are bombarded with advertising that promotes unhealthy eating.

“It is also cheaper and easier for individuals to consume foods and drinks high in fat, sugar and salt than healthy alternatives.”

A study by the Food Foundation found that healthy foods cost twice as much per calorie as unhealthy foods.

Kathryn Jenner of the Obesity Health Alliance says the environment in which people grow up in their 20s and 30s has a big impact on “habitual behaviours”.

She said the pandemic has disrupted exercise and other habits at a “crucial time,” with the digital environment being more likely to use food apps and spend time on social media with younger groups.