Top 5 Facts About the Fat Epidemic

As obesity levels rise in Australia, causing disease and morbidity* rates to also increase, the case for life insurance becomes more compelling for people in the danger zone. Statistics show, however, that awareness and perception of obesity is on the decline.

Here are the Top 5 Facts About the Fat Epidemic:

1. Over 1/3 of Zurich death claims are a direct result of cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in Australia - an obvious link to the rising levels of obesity, which is one of the leading causes of heart disease.

2. Obesity levels have risen during the past year. In 2009, 54% of the Australian population was overweight or obese compared to 50% in 2008. Obesity is most commonly measured by height to weight ratio or the Body Mass Index (BMI). Anyone with a BMI of 25 or greater is considered overweight. If your BMI is 30 or greater, you're considered obese.

3. The perception of obesity is falling. In 2009, 1 in 6 obese Australians believed their weight met health guidelines compared to 1 in 9 in 2008. It's surprising to see that as the rate of obesity rises - along with awareness and education about this disease - many people are becoming less astute at realising they're at a dangerous weight.

4. Diabetes is Australia's fastest growing chronic disease. Obesity is a leading cause of Type 2 diabetes, which is not only fatal (it's 1 of the top 10 underlying causes of death), but can cause permanent disability.

5. Men are more likely than women to be overweight. A staggering 67% of Australian men (aged 25 years and over) are overweight. Australian women are doing better at 52% but that still leaves more than 1/2 the female population with an unhealthy weight issue.

It's interesting to note that we were thinner in the 1980's! The average woman at the end of the last century was 4.8kg heavier than in 1980 while the average man was 3.6kg heavier.

The above information has been sourced from Zurich Financial Services Australia Ltd.

* Morbidity means the rate of illness in a population.

Important Information

The above information provides an overview or summary only and it shouldn’t be considered a comprehensive statement on any matter or relied upon as such. The above information doesn’t take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. It’s important for you to consider these matters before making any financial decision and I recommend you seek help from a financial adviser.