MBF Healthwatch survey shows many Australians 'too polite' to sound health alarm on family weight problems

Release date: October 9th, 2007

Nearly 30% of Australians would fail or hesitate to warn a partner or family member that they were obese even if it meant their health was at risk, according to the latest national MBF Healthwatch survey.

In another surprise finding, the survey of 1,200 Australians showed that men are less likely than women to tolerate the poor personal hygiene habits of work colleagues and friends. But women were more likely than men to encourage a partner or family member to get a medical check up for a particular health problem.

The survey also showed that failing to cover up coughs and sneezes, failing to wash hands after visiting the toilet and going to work when sick are the three bad health habits that people find most annoying in public.

The MBF Healthwatch survey -- released today to coincide with the official opening of MBF's new Sydney CBD flagship retail centre -- also showed women are more likely than men to urge a partner or family member to have a medical check up for a particular health problem.

MBF Chief Medical Officer Dr Christine Bennett said the apparent reluctance of some people to sound the alarm on the health risk of obesity to their loved ones was a concern.

"It is unfortunate that a significant number of people would fail or be reluctant to raise concern about weight issues perhaps because we are taught from childhood that commenting on someone's weight is considered bad manners.

"Trying to be polite could mean that people close to us miss out on a sensitive but timely call to address weight issues to avoid health problems such as heart disease and diabetes.

"In contrast, the MBF Healthwatch survey shows that people are more likely to encourage a partner or family member to obtain a medical check up when a particular health condition emerges. It is just as important to speak up about obesity when it poses a threat to someone's future health and wellbeing."

Key findings of the MBF Healthwatch survey included:

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