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Abstract
This paper draws upon a review of empirical and policy literature to provide an analysis of the development of surveillance and screening for childhood obesity in the UK. It is argued that policy in this area has lacked coordination and that the intended application of surveillance and screening for childhood obesity in the UK has neither been clearly articulated nor adequately explored. At present, universal measurement of school children's height and weight is conducted as part of the National Child Measurement Programme. Results are not fed back to parents since this amounts to screening and there is insufficient evidence to satisfy National Screening Programme Committee criteria. Results will be fed back to parents beginning from the 2008/9 school year, but whilst expert committees globally have been divided on the effectiveness of screening, its benefits and harms remain uncertain. Experience internationally suggests that to date, inadequate attention has been given to psychological implications of intervention. Similarly, the benefits and harms of surveillance remain uncertain and evidence indicates that the stated purposes of the UK programme are unrealistic. In consideration of the rates, trends and potential consequences of childhood obesity, it is clear that the intended application of screening and surveillance for childhood obesity merits clear definition and rigorous examination.