The bulk of the nation

There are now more overweight people in the world than under-nourished. But however normal it has become to be heavy, no one is too fat to exercise, says Lucy Atkins.

The sad truth about obesity

Naomi Alderman: People are getting fatter because food is now readily available; it's easy to eat emotionally because food is everywhere.

£40,000 shortfall threatens study of childhood obesity and diabetes

· Lack of funding from DoH may halt unique research · Financial blow 'gives lie to government rhetoric'

Trouble in paradise

More than 90% of Tongans are overweight, making the South Sea islanders the world's fattest nation. They are happy - but should they be worried? Stefan Gates reports.

Smokers and alcoholics ‘should pay for operations’

· Poll finds hardening of attitudes by NHS doctors · One-third oppose free drugs for obese people