Obese people 'unaware' of health risks

More than a quarter of obese and overweight people do not want to lose weight, a new survey has claimed.

The study, conducted by Cancer Research UK, also suggested that many more were unaware of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

More than half of the 4,000 people surveyed were overweight or obese, the charity said, but 87% and 32% of overweight people failed to identify their correct weight category.

The study also found that 71% of respondents were unaware of the risk of cancer, which is increased for those who are obese or overweight.

Nearly half of those surveyed did not believe that eating healthily could help reduce cancer risk, while almost two thirds were unaware that regular exercise could also reduce risk.

More than 80% also did not know the importance of maintaining a healthy body weight, while almost the same percentage failed to recognise the importance of moderation when drinking alcohol to reduce cancer risk.

Being obese or overweight is one of the most significant preventable causes of cancer in non-smokers yet rates of obesity are increasing.

Obesity is linked with an increased risk of bowel, kidney, oesophageal and stomach cancers, as well as a cancer of the womb and breast cancer in post-menopausal women.

Cancer Research UK, in connection with Weight Concern, has issued a set of weight management tips. These include:

• Keep to your meal routine
• Choose reduced fat versions of foods
• Walk 10,000 steps - equivalent to 60 - 90 minutes of moderate activity - each day
• Pack a healthy snack
• Check fat and sugar contents on food labels
• Be cautious with portions
• Break up sitting time - stand up for ten minutes out of every hour
• Drink water and sugar-free squashes and be aware of the amount of sugar in unsweetened fruit juice and calories in alcohol
• Do not eat food quickly. Eat at a table, where possible, instead of on the go or in front of the TV
• Eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day

Dr Lesley Walker, Director of Cancer Information at Cancer Research UK, said: "It's worrying to think that people are in denial about their weight. People who are carrying extra weight face significant health risks including cancer.

"Obesity is one of the biggest known preventable causes of cancer for those who don't smoke. These results show far too many of those at greatest risk are choosing to ignore their weight. They are unaware of their increased risk of cancer and unaware of many of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle."

Caroline Swain, Executive Director of Weight Concern said: "The survey findings highlight a widespread lack of concern about obesity. Education and support are a vital component in tackling the alarming rise in obesity in this country."

(KMcA)