The shock factor of the numbers is actually due to the fatting up of sizes, like the dumbing down of exams.

The relatively voluptuous beauties of the 50s were 36 24 36, remember, so a 22 inch waist on a woman is hardly anorectic.

Some of the heroin chic catwalk beauties certainly are unhealthy, but get the facts straight. A 22 inch waist ona woman is not unhealthy in itself. A 22 inch waist on the average 8 year old female in the UK is a step too far in the opposite direction.

By the way, I'm fat, but I know I'd be healthier if I was thin.