CHICAGO, Sep 03, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- We think we're healthier than we
actually are, suggests a new survey from market research leader Mintel.
Surveying Americans about their health, Mintel found people's perceptions
strongly contradict national statistics about obesity, illness and wellness.
Seven in 10 survey respondents (71%) told Mintel they think they're in excellent
or good health. But according to the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions'
Connected Care, 100 million Americans suffer from chronic illnesses such as
heart disease, diabetes or hypertension.
On the weighty issue of obesity, people seem to be in denial as well. Only 25%
of survey respondents said they suffer from or have been diagnosed as obese or
overweight. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), however,
two-thirds (67%) fall into these categories. Mintel calculated the body mass
index (BMI) of survey respondents for a separate report on obesity and likewise
found that 65% of people are overweight or obese.
"The challenge clearly lies in getting Americans to accept and admit that their
health isn't optimal," comments Krista Faron, senior analyst at Mintel. "Right
now we say one thing, but then our actions contradict those perceptions and best
intentions. All companies, from healthcare to food, need to get adults who are
at risk or ill to recognize their issues, accept responsibility and make
lifestyle changes."
Mintel found 70% of adults think they should exercise more. Fewer than two in
five (37%) say they exercise regularly, and half of them (48%) only work out
twice a week or less. The CDC recommends moderate aerobic activity for 150
minutes per week, plus two days of muscle-strengthening.
The dichotomy between perceived health and actual behavior emerges further in
attitudes towards food. Two-thirds of Mintel respondents (65%) said they "try to
eat healthier food these days", but nearly the same percentage (59%) said they
eat the foods they like "regardless of calories". Similarly, just over half
(52%) said they're on a diet, but nearly the same number (45%) feel they often
overeat.
"People have lofty, admirable goals of eating healthier, exercising more and
treating their bodies better. Our research suggests though, that implementation
of these goals is challenging. Many people need help and guidance to understand
where their health is lacking and how they can improve it," recommends Krista
Faron.
About half of Mintel survey respondents (51%) consider it "very important" to
live a healthy lifestyle; another four in 10 (39%) consider it "somewhat
important".
About Mintel
Mintel is a leading global supplier of consumer, product and media intelligence.
For more than 35 years, Mintel has provided insight into key worldwide trends,
offering unique data that directly impacts client success. With offices in
Chicago, London, Belfast, Sydney, Shanghai and Tokyo, Mintel has forged a unique
reputation as a world-renowned business brand. For more information on Mintel,
please visit www.mintel.com.
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SOURCE: Mintel
CONTACT:
Mintel International
Joanna Gueller (formerly Peot)
312-628-7946
jgueller@mintel.com