The major concern stems from the fact that
obesity causes far-reaching adverse effects on the
general health of the population, contributing to
serious secondary complications such as diabetes,
heart disease and hypertension. The cost implica-
tion of obesity to the NHS runs into billions of
pounds, which includes specialized equipment,
various types of surgeries and longer hospital
stays due to a higher dependency on care.
During pregnancy, obesity presents an
increased risk of morbidity and mortality
for both the mother and baby. (CEMACH,
2007). This presents a further challenge to
midwives and other health professionals
responsible for the management of the care of his particular group of women and babies.