Britain is among the most unhealthy nations, say respondents

The survey of 2,229 people by researchers YouGov found Britons think they rank alongside America as the most unhealthy nation.

The poll revealed 28% of Londoners do not read food labels and 39% say price is the most important factor.

The government recommends 30 minutes of moderate activity five times a week.

Lynn Porteous, of Canderel which commissioned the survey, said: "This report proves that there is still a lot of work to be done if the adoption of a healthy lifestyle becomes a reality for consumers nationwide - not just in terms of financial cost, but also in terms of the personal risk to every individual.

"Obesity cuts short an individual's life by nine years."

She said government agencies, the food industry and the healthcare sector needed to work together more closely to reach targets to reduce obesity.

The National Audit Office estimates the cost of obesity and related diseases to the National Health Service is at least �500m a year.

they rank alongside America as the most unhealthy nation.

The poll revealed 28% of Londoners do not read food labels and 39% say price is the most important.

The government recommends 30 minutes of moderate activity five times a week.

Lynn Porteous, of Canderel which commissioned the survey, said: "This report proves that there is still a lot of work to be done if the adoption of a healthy lifestyle becomes a reality for consumers nationwide - not just in terms of financial cost, but also in terms of the personal risk to every individual.

"Obesity cuts short an individual's life by nine years."

She said government agencies, the food industry and the healthcare sector needed to work together more closely to reach targets to reduce obesity.

The National Audit Office estimates the cost of obesity and related diseases to the National Health Service is at least �500m a year.