Catherine Conlon: Now is not the time to scrap ‘Operation Transformation’

The popular RTÉ show has come in for criticism, but given Ireland’s worsening obesity problem, we can ill afford to abandon ways to tackle it, writes Dr Catherine Conlon

'Operation Transformation is a cost-effective vehicle to highlight the damage the modern sedentary and snacking takeaway culture is doing to all our lives.'

Operation Transformation has come under a wave of criticism for stigmatising those with overweight and obesity issues by focusing on their personal responsibility to control their weight.

Bodywhys, the Eating Disorders Association of Ireland, has expressed concerns that the programme promotes eating disorders. Dr Donal O’Shea, HSE lead for obesity, disputes this. He suggests that the trigger for rising numbers of eating disorders is social media.