According to new figures , released by ISD Scotland, the statistical wing of the NHS, said the "obesity epidemic" puts Scotland second bottom in a list of the developed world's most obese nations, with only America faring worse.

Since 1995, obesity in the adult population has increased by 46%, with marked increases in men aged 35 to 64 and in women aged 35 to 44.  Child obesity is also on the increase with one in five children in primary seven estimated to be obese in 2004/05.

The report said: "These figures provide little evidence that current approaches to obesity are having any impact."

"The increasing levels of obesity are of serious concern given the levels of morbidity and mortality associated with obesity."

"It is estimated that obese people in Scotland are 18% more likely to be hospitalised than those of normal weight."

The condition is likely to result in rising levels of Type 2 diabetes, colon cancer and hypertension.

Declining levels of physical activity and "sedentary lifestyles" are highlighted in the report as possible factors.