One in three 7-year-olds in Ireland is either overweight or obese and health experts say Ireland is heading the way of America when it comes to obesity.

The Nutrition and Health Foundation says all sections of society have to work together to tackle the problem.

And it is calling on the government to lead the fight.

Health experts are gathering in Dublin today to discuss ways of tackling obesity. They have been hearing from Robin Shepper who previously worked as the executive director of the 'Let's Move' campaign by US First Lady Michelle Obama.

She says there is no silver bullet and everyone has to pitch in. And she warns that obesity is not just a health issue.

Dr. Muireann Cullen is manager of the Nutrition and Health Foundation. She she says the government has to lead the way in tackling a dangerous problem.