Overview

• NHS England has begun a national rollout of hidden-digit smart scales, targeting thousands of severely obese children aged 3–18 through 19 specialist clinics.
• The scales transmit weight data to clinicians via a connected app, enabling tailored advice and encouragement without displaying weight numbers to children or families.
• The initiative, which builds on a 350-family pilot, aims to promote healthy habits and support weight loss while reducing the stigma often associated with traditional BMI checks.
• Supporters, including NHS officials, call the approach compassionate and effective, while critics argue it is intrusive, overly paternalistic, and a potential misuse of funds.
• Childhood obesity affects one in seven children in England, with severe cases linked to long-term health risks such as type 2 diabetes, mental health issues, and educational challenges.