The number of patients admitted to hospital due to obesity has increased in Swindon, new data shows.

The figures published by NHS Digital reveal there were 2,965 hospital admissions between 2019 and 2020 where obesity was a primary or secondary factor.

That that represented 1,400 in every 100,000 residents – up from the previous year’s figure of 1,334. Three years earlier, the rate was 1,444.

Women accounted for two-thirds of obesity-related hospital cases.

But while the figures referred to Swindon, which serves a wider area of Wiltshire, confirmed it has seen a drop in admissions.

A hospital spokeswoman said: “We have seen a 38per cent decrease over the last year with admissions to Great Western Hospital due to obesity as the primary or secondary factor and, whilst this is positive news, we do still recognise that those who are obese might face additional health complexities that require hospital treatment.

“We offer support services to patients who need them and work closely with a number of local partner organisations to refer patients onto further support if it is required.”

Across the country, there were more than 1m admissions due to obesity last year – up 17 per cent from 2018-19.

NHS England medical director Professor Stephen Powis said the latest “shocking” figures, which show obesity-related admissions have risen by nearly a fifth nationally, are a growing sign that a weight crisis is sweeping the nation.

“Carrying extra pounds not only puts a strain on your physical health, but also on the health service,” he said.

“As lockdown restrictions start to ease, there has never been a better time to take steps to live a healthier lifestyle.”

There was huge disparity in rates across England, with the most deprived areas worse affected than more affluent communities.

The south west was the fifth-worst affected of the country’s nine regions, with a rate of 1,909 per 100,000 population.

The Government has announced new measures to help tackle the problem, including a ban on junk food adverts online and calories on menus for meals.

Diabetes UK, which has campaigned for menu calorie labelling as part of its Food Upfront campaign, welcomed the move. Head of policy, campaigns and mobilisation Helen Kirrane, said: “Obesity is the single greatest risk factor for type 2 diabetes. There are an estimated 13.6 million people at increased risk of developing the condition in the UK.

“We are glad that the Government has committed to making large takeaway, cafe and restaurant chains in England label the food they sell. This will hopefully lead to improved menus and healthier options.

“We hope it will bring these large businesses more in line with the food retail sector when it comes to giving people clear calorie information for the food they buy.”