Obesity is a major issue around the world, and as more and more people put on excess weight it is a problem that is only likely to get worse. In the UK it is estimated that one in five men and a quarter of women are obese, and that as many as 30,000 people die prematurely every year from obesity-related conditions. Why is obesity a problem? Experts believe that obesity is responsible for more ill health even than smoking. Being significantly overweight is linked to a wide range of health problems, including: Heart disease High blood pressure Arthritis Diabetes Indigestion Gallstones Some cancers (e.g. breast, prostate) Snoring, stress, anxiety, and depression In the UK, how many men are estimated to be obese?