Men in denial over weight problems

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

A survey shows that some men are not aware they are overweight and do not know the health risks they may be running.
Obesity is a big risk factor for cancer. But, according to a new survey from the leading charity Cancer Research UK, men seem to be in denial when it comes to weight problems.

We know that 65 per cent of men in the UK are overweight or obese. The survey asked over 2,000 men if they thought they were carrying excess weight. Only 40 per cent said they were, which means that 25 per cent or so might just be in denial. And 65 per cent of the group didn't know obesity is a risk factor for cancer. Three quarters didn't know there is a link between physical inactivity and cancer too.

In fact, obesity probably contributes to about 4,000 cases of cancer in the UK. It increases the risk of bowel cancer by 60 per cent and doubles the risk of kidney, esophageal and stomach cancer. Because men seem less willing to do something about overweight than women, Cancer Research UK have launched a new Campaign called Man Alive which will help them become more aware and do more to shed excess pounds.

Source
Cancer Research UK 4th July 2005

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