Most Americans know that obesity is linked to heart disease and diabetes, but a new survey shows people aren’t aware of the other risks associated with weight. The poll, conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, shows Americans need a little more education when it comes to the health hazards of obesity.
The survey says…
The survey shows Americas didn’t know that excess weight can cause infertility, certain kinds of cancer and sleep apnea. About 70 percent of those surveyed did list heart disease and diabetes as a health risk, but just 7 percent of people knew cancer and obesity are linked.
“People are often shocked to hear how far-reaching the effects of obesity are,” said Jennifer Dimitriou, a bariatric dietitian at New York’s Montefiore Medical Center.
Dimitriou says many people want to lose weight, but aren’t sure how to go about it.
“Most people want to become healthier. It’s the know-how, and understanding what the consequences are,” she said.
Obesity rates climb
In the past decade the number of severely obese people has skyrocketed. According to a new study the number of people who are more than 100 pounds overweight has jumped by 70% in the last decade.
“The proportion of people at the high end of the weight scale continues to increase faster than any other group of obese people, despite increased public attention on the risks of obesity,” Roland Sturm, a researcher from a separate study stated.
Both studies show the consequences of obesity and encourage people to talk with their doctor about ways to improve their health.
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