YAZEN HEALTH RESEARCH REVEALS OVER A THIRD OF BRITS WRONGLY BELIEVE OBESITY IS A PERSONAL CHOICE

New survey uncovers widespread misunderstandings around obesity as a disease

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."

To read about the research in more detail and learn about Yazen Health’s innovative approach to obesity treatment, please visit yazen.com/uk

Live Webinar: "The truth about obesity"
Meet our expert panel for a webinar which aims to educate, inspire, and empower our community with valuable insights and practical strategies for achieving long-term weight management.
Date and Time: Thursday June 20th, at 13:30 - 14:30 CEST (12:30 - 13:30 BST).
Se more and register here: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7205839849935847425/comments/

ENDS

About Yazen Health

Founded by health care professionals in Sweden in 2021, Yazen is pioneering a revolutionary approach to obesity treatment through digital healthcare. Combining groundbreaking GLP-1 weight loss medications with comprehensive lifestyle guidance, Yazen offers a holistic, data-driven solution. With over 13,000 active users who have collectively lost 130+ tons, Yazen stands out in treating the global obesity epidemic. Its innovative model provides personalised obesity programmes through an advanced yet user-friendly app, enhancing access to specialist care including doctors, coaches, dietitians, psychologists and trainers.

As Sweden's largest digital provider for obesity treatment, Yazen's clinically-proven methodology empowers patients with motivational tools like game-style courses. Its technology aligns with recent NICE guidelines highlighting the importance of digital solutions to expand access to medication, lifestyle changes and reduce NHS waiting lists.

By delivering multi-faceted, evidence-based digital obesity care, Yazen revolutionises treatment of this worldwide health challenge through cutting-edge solutions that enhance engagement and sustainable weight loss success.

Media Contact: yazen@wearetfd.com