As obesity in the UK continues to rise, Norwich Union life insurance is highlighting the financial impact of the growing epidemic.

The UK's largest insurer advises that piling on the pounds is likely to be reflected in higher life insurance cover premiums, with a clinically obese person facing payments of nearly twice as much as a person of normal weight for exactly the same cover. As an example, when buying life cover of £200,000 for a 15 year term, an average 35 year old, 5'10" non-smoking male weighing 12 stones can expect to pay far less than the equivalent heavier applicant.

In fact, a non-smoking male of the same age and height but weighing 18 stones can expect to see an increase in their premium of nearly 30%. And if this heavier male was to put on further weight up to 20 stones, their life insurance costs could increase by around 75%.

The effects are much the same for women too. For example, a 35 year old, 5'5" non-smoking female weighing 15 stones would pay a premium 25% higher than a nine stone counterpart. This premium hike jumps to 70% when comparing the same female applicant at 17 stones in weight.

Chief underwriter at Norwich Union life insurance, Tony Jupp, says: "Obesity dramatically increases the likelihood of a range of chronic medical conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. It can also put a huge strain on weight bearing joints especially the hips and knees, leading to a number of mobility problems. In addition, many overweight people are very sensitive about their weight and these concerns can often lead to periods of anxiety and even depression. The cost of life insurance cover has to reflect these additional risks."