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Think you're in good shape? Think again
Time：2015-06-23 11:00:24
Source：The Standard
A survey of 500 people by the organization, conducted by the University of Hong Kong's Public Opinion Programme, found about 23 percent of male respondents who claimed they had standard body shape were in fact overweight.
"People feel too good about their body shape," said alliance doctor Peter Tong Chun-yip.
"This misinterpretation will affect how they take care of their body."
The study was done between March and April this year, with 500 people interviewed over the phone to study their understanding of obesity and preferences for different treatment.
About 40 percent of respondents believe weight is the main indicator of obesity, but Tong said the measurement of a person's waist is more accurate in reflecting the proportion of fat accumulated beneath.
"The best way to see whether you need to diet is to check your BMI [body mass index] and waist measurement," he said.
BMI is a formula set to calculate the content of fat in a person's body by dividing weight by the square of the body height.
People with a BMI of between 26 and 30 should discuss with their doctor if they need to take medication to assist with weight loss, says the alliance.
Men with a waistline above 90 centimeters and women above 80cm are classified as "central obese," Tong said.
"But only 0.4 percent of people know central obesity might lead to cancer."
Obesity could triple the risk of getting chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
"Exercising will not help reduce your body mass unless you work out as hard as professional athletes," said alliance committee member Tony Lee Chun-kit. "Changing your eating habits is more important.
"Do not eat before sleeping and avoid eating out too often."
He also recommended adopting a diet with lower sugar content and more fiber, avoiding foods high in fat and cholesterol.
Lee recommends the drug Orlistat for people suffering from obesity as it reduces the fat intake by 30 percent through excretion. There are no side effects.
The alliance was officially launched yesterday and will begin raising awareness of obesity next month.
