Alan Beith MP gives healthy living his seal of approval

3.45.00pm GMT Mon 28th Jan 2008

Berwick's Lib Dem MP Alan Beith took a break from heavyweight politics when he had his Body Mass Index (BMI) measured at an event organised by Cancer Research UK in Parliament.

It was part of a drive to raise awareness of the impact of obesity on cancer risk and the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.

Cancer Research UK also spoke to the Berwick-upon-Tweed MP about a recent survey conducted by the charity which found that 65 per cent of people questioned were unaware that being overweight or obese would increase an individual's risk of developing cancer.

Alan Beith said: "I'm really concerned that many people are not aware that changes to their diet and maintaining an active lifestyle could improve their health and reduce their risk of developing cancer.

"I learnt a lot talking to Cancer Research UK experts and would encourage people to visit the charity's website - www.reducetherisk.org.uk - to find out more information."

Sara Hiom, Cancer Research UK's director of health information, said: "The evidence linking obesity and being overweight to an increased risk of cancer is compelling. Research shows that around 12,000 people every year might avoid getting cancer if they maintained a healthy body weight.

"Cancer Research UK in partnership with Weight Concern developed a program called Ten Top Tips to provide straightforward advice to help people lose weight safely in a way that can fit around everyday life. For example, the tips include taking a brisk walk every day and exercising caution with food portion sizes."

For Cancer Research UK's advice on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle visit www.reducetherisk.org.uk

About BMI

Body mass index (BMI) is a simple tool to measure whether a person is within a healthy weight range for their height. BMI is only a guide and is aimed at healthy adults. It isn't suitable for children or older people. Individuals can calculate their BMI by dividing their weight in kilograms by their height in metres squared (weight [kg] / height [m]2). A BMI of between 18.5 and 25 is OK, 25-30 is overweight and 30+ would put a person in the obese category. BMI is only a guide and is not suitable for children or elderly people.

Ten Top Tips

Cancer Research UK and the charity Weight Concern have developed Ten Top Tips for a healthy weight:

Keep to your meal routine. Try to eat at roughly the same times each day, whether this is two or five times a day.

Go reduced fat. Choose reduced fat versions of foods such as dairy products, spreads and salad dressings where you can.

Walk off the weight. Walk 10,000 steps (about 60-90 minutes of moderate activity) each day.

Pack a healthy snack. If you snack, choose a healthy option such as fresh fruit or low calorie yogurts instead of chocolate or crisps.

Look at the labels. Be careful about food claims. Check the fat and sugar content on food labels when shopping and preparing food.

Caution with your portions. Don't heap food on your plate (except vegetables). Think twice before having second helpings.

Up on your feet. Break up your sitting time. Stand up for ten minutes out of every hour.

Think about your drinks. Choose water or sugar-free squashes.

Focus on your food. Slow down. Don't eat on the go or while watching TV.

Don't forget your 5 a day. Eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

For further information about Cancer Research UK's work or to find out how to support the charity, please call 08701 602040 or visit www.cancerresearchuk.org.uk.