New research: over a third of Brits see obesity as a personal choice

Yazen research reveals over a third of Brits wrongly believe obesity is a personal choice

New survey uncovers widespread misunderstandings around obesity as a disease
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LONDON, 12th June 2024 – Despite obesity's tremendous toll on public health and the economy, myths and misconceptions persist with over one-third (37%) of Brits mistakenly viewing it as a personal choice rather than a chronic medical disease and 43% attributing obesity to laziness. This is according to striking new independent research from Yazen Health, a leading digital provider of comprehensive, medically-assisted weight loss treatment.

The results highlight a concerning disconnect between public perceptions and the biological drivers of obesity, as the medical community widely recognises obesity as a chronic disease that requires proper medical treatment and management.

"These findings underscore the need for greater public education around the complex factors that contribute to obesity," said Dr. Martin Carlsson, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Yazen. "Obesity is not simply a matter of willpower or lifestyle habits. It's a metabolic disorder influenced by genetics, hormones, and other physiological aspects. With obesity raising risks for over 200 conditions like heart disease and cancer, we need to replace judgement with compassion and provide accessible, evidence-based obesity care that addresses the multifaceted drivers of this disease”.

It is estimated that 63.8% of adults in England are either overweight or obese, now costing the UK economy £98 billion annually. Yet the survey found only 26% would consider accessing a proven regional weight loss programme. This is likely fueled by misguided beliefs that obesity is a personal choice (33%) or purely genetic (33%), rather than a chronic medical issue.

Other key highlights from the survey:

• 45% find it difficult to sustain motivation for healthy habits while balancing other priorities
• 42% are rarely satisfied with their weight, with the dissatisfaction rate higher among women (48%) than men (36%)
• 39% of respondents find it hard to make healthy choices while juggling work and family life

According to the survey, 55% of respondents believe you must lose a lot of weight to make a difference to your health if you’re suffering from weight-related illnesses but Yazen patient Erica Bergsmeds says: "For years I struggled with my high BMI and cholesterol levels. I tried fad diet after fad diet, but nothing worked sustainably. With Yazen, I've learned that even moderate weight loss when achieved through a comprehensive, medically-guided programme can transform your life. I didn't have to lose a drastic amount to start feeling better physically and mentally. I now have lasting weight stability, have improved my health markers, and boosted my self-confidence.”

"Our approach recognises that obesity is a complex chronic condition requiring holistic, medically-guided management," noted Carlsson. "Through our convenient digital model, we're empowering more people to overcome weight issues, improve metabolic health, and live happier lives unburdened by obesity's stigmas and risks."

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