DOCTORS in Darlington will be asking all patients - regardless of age, size or ailment - to have their waist measured and weight checked as part of a new scheme to tackle obesity.

The information will be used by health officials to build up a comprehensive profile health trends in the town and help them prepare for future needs.

Although the scheme is voluntary, it is hoped all patients will co-operate with their GP’s request to enable the scheme to build up the clearest picture possible of public health in the town.

Health bosses are hoping the scheme could help identify patients with diabetes or other illnesses associated with excess weight as early as possible.

It could also prevent patients from becoming seriously overweight in the first place by distinguishing those who could benefit from lifestyle advice, including information on healthy diets and exercise.

The practice-based commissioning scheme, which has been devised by NHS Darlington and County Durham and local GPs, will see doctors ask their patients to step up on the scales and have their waists measured.

Excess weight has been linked to numerous serious conditions including diabetes, coronary vascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, mental health problems and musculo-skeletal issues.

The scheme has been put in place in response to the North-East being identified as one of the worst places in the country for obesity and associated health problems.

PBC chairman Carol Charlton said: "We hope the fact that doctors are taking this so seriously will help the public understand the inextricable link between weight and health problems.

"We don't want people to feel bad about their weight. But we would like them to have an open mind. This is not just about helping people to live longer; it's about helping them have a better quality of life.

"The scheme is designed to prevent people from becoming ill in the first place rather than just react to their health problems of the moment.

"So being asked for your measurements isn't personal - GPs will be asking everyone for their help and the scheme will help prevent ill-health, lead to earlier diagnoses and better prognoses for patients."