The Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists has stated that 66 percent of adolescent boys and a massive 80 percent of girls in Ireland do not indulge in the minimum 60 minutes of daily physical activity.

Meanwhile, the Insitute of Public Health highlighted the high drop-out rate in certain programmes designed to combat childhood obesity.

Weight loss programmes that are family based and combine healthy eating, physical activity and behavioural components are effective - but there is still a stigma attached.

It means that the majority of families referred to such treatment decline, and many who do agree to attend subsequently drop out.

Chief executive Owen Metcalfe said: "A review of research shows children agreed to enrol in obesity treatment programmes primarily to have fun and make friends. Others engaged with the expectation of improving their weight and appearance."

"However, the stigma associated with attending these programmes discouraged many other children from attending."

"To counteract the stigma that leads to non-participation and dropping out, marketing materials should be bright and fun, highlighting the positive benefits to the children, the opportunity to learn new skills and take part in interesting activities."

Courtsey: Irish Independent