More than a quarter of young people growing up in Ireland obese or overweight

The study also threw up a gender disparity when it comes to weight and physical activity. File photo

New research shows 20% of 17-to-18-year-olds are overweight and a further 8% are obese, according to the latest Growing Up in Ireland survey.

The survey, which followed 6,000 children since they were nine, also found most 17 and 18-year-olds have good relationships with their parents, are in good health and ambitious for their futures.