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Study finds women more concerned about weight management than cancer

A major study has found women are more worried about getting fat than they are of being diagnosed with cancer.

More than 3000 Australian women took part in the 2016 Women's Health Survey conducted by health organisation Jean Hailes, and the findings have shocked medical experts.

Body image ranked number one when it came to the biggest health concerns, with women of all ages agreeing that their image was important.

“Every morning you wake up and you look at yourself in the mirror and you make an assessment of your physical health,” study participant Julie O’Shea told 7 News.

Women who participated in the study listed body image as their number one concern. Photo: 7 News
Women who participated in the study listed body image as their number one concern. Photo: 7 News


“I do watch my weight because I've watched friends who get overweight and it's very easy for that to happen after menopause,” Helen Ogg, another participant, agreed.

The research found that women worry more about being overweight than being diagnosed with cancer, while mental health, menopause and chronic pain round out their top five health concerns.

The results have surprised doctors who say females come to them about mental health, more than anything else.

Researcher Janet Michelmore said the survey provided valuable information for medical professionals.

Researcher Janet Michelmore. Photo: 7 News
Researcher Janet Michelmore. Photo: 7 News

“The findings give us great insight into what we can do to fill those gaps,” she said.

While reproductive health issues failed to make the list, doctors say it is one topic that shouldn’t be overlooked.

“Only 20 per cent of women are actually having sexual health checks, which is far too low particularly when doctors were telling us that fertility is another issue in women,” researcher Dr Mandy Deeks said.

Another surprise from the survey found women in their 20s and 30s do the least amount of exercise.

“When you're working and you have a young family, I really did neglect my physical activity,” Mrs Ogg, now in her 60s, agreed.

Weight management topped the list of health concerns for women. Photo: 7 News
Weight management topped the list of health concerns for women. Photo: 7 News


“I'm retired now and I exercise heaps.”

The pressures of juggling a busy life also cause one in three women to feel worried or anxious on a daily basis.

For many women, one of the biggest challenges to better health is finding the time, but Mrs Michelmore says small changes everyday can make a big difference.

“It's not about going from sitting and not doing much everyday to running a four minute mile, it's about being realistic about what your goals are,” she said.

News break – August 28