You report that one-in-five people in the UK is obese and 30,000 a year die prematurely as a result of weight-related problems (Argus, March 10).

Surely this indicates an underlying problem in our society. Everyone who is overweight recognises the need for "comfort eating" when dealing with social and emotional issues.

I am currently participating in a course called Take Shape, which supports me in addressing these issues and helps and encourages me to explore the root causes of my weight problem.

As a result, I am not only losing weight but also feel better about myself and have more confidence.

This is a much healthier way to reduce my weight than "impairing my digestion of fats and stopping their passage into the bloodstream".

What happens when I stop taking the pills? What are the side effects? Could a course such as Take Shape be available on the NHS for people who genuinely want to lose weight?

-Lynfa Davies, Margaret Street, Brighton