Serious data released on Hungarians' health, revealing that many do not seek medical help

A survey of 2,000 adults aged 18–65, conducted by Szinapszis to map obesity-related issues, revealed that there are complex reasons behind Hungarians' excess weight. The most common reasons cited by respondents were a lack of regular exercise (43%) and a poor diet (40%), with one in four also mentioning stress.

This clearly shows that weight problems are caused not only by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by a hectic lifestyle and stress. Many respondents reported patterns that had continued from childhood, showing that behavioural and environmental factors must also be addressed when developing weight control strategies.

Almost 60% of respondents living in households of at least two people said that they live with at least one other person who also struggles with weight issues. According to a statement from Novo Nordisk, shared habits, shopping routines and daily rhythms can be both a support and an obstacle to change.

Eighty percent of obese respondents said that losing weight was an important goal, but only one-third considered it truly important,

said Balázs Kertész, managing director of Szinapszis Kft., in connection with the survey. "There are multiple factors involved in motivation: in addition to physical appearance and improved physical performance, maintaining health and preventing disease can also influence decisions to lose weight," he added.

Although 88% of those surveyed who wanted to lose weight said avoiding future illnesses motivated them, and 83% cent of those who admitted to being overweight said they visited their general practitioner, only 53% reported weight management being discussed during their visits.

This represents a significant untapped opportunity because doctors are best placed to provide effective weight management support. The goal of obesity treatment is not only weight loss, but also the prevention of serious cardiovascular diseases.

"One of the most serious long-term consequences of obesity is cardiovascular disease (CVD). There are several reasons for this. As BMI increases, blood pressure rises and lipid profiles deteriorate, both of which lead to cardiovascular problems. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) [i.e. the fat depot that exists on the surface of the myocardium and is contained entirely beneath the pericardium], has a direct effect on the coronary arteries, promoting atherosclerosis and contributing to the development of atrial fibrillation. The goal goes beyond weight loss; the focus is on maintaining long-term health and quality of life," explained Péter Torzsa, an associate professor, family doctor and occupational health specialist.

The study also revealed that comorbidities are already prevalent among overweight working-age adults (18–65 years old). Almost half of those affected have experienced high blood pressure, a third have high cholesterol or chronic musculoskeletal complaints, and nearly a fifth have diabetes.

These figures clearly demonstrate that being overweight not only impairs an individual's quality of life, but also places a significant strain on the healthcare system.

Obesity is a widespread disease. Around 650 million people worldwide are considered obese, and

nearly 70% of the population in Hungary is overweight or obese.

Cover image (for illustration purposes only): Getty Images