Numan releases new State of Obesity Report: addressing misconceptions and driving change in the UK

At Numan, we’re confronting the misconceptions around obesity in the UK. Today, we released our State of Obesity Report, revealing that less than half of Brits (48%) recognise obesity as a disease. Despite significant advances in medical and scientific understanding, nearly three in five people (57%) also still view it as a personal choice, reinforcing an outdated and harmful narrative.

As a digital healthcare provider dedicated to transforming health outcomes, we’re committed to reframing this perspective. Obesity is a complex condition influenced by genetics, environment, psychology, hormones, and more. It's time to move beyond blame and individual responsibility towards a broader, more accurate understanding of obesity.

Breaking free from outdated diet culture

Our State of Obesity Report provides insight into how far public opinion still lags behind medical understanding. While over a third of respondents believe lack of exercise is the primary cause of obesity, only 7% considered genetic factors, despite research showing that obesity can be up to 70% heritable¹. Similarly, very few respondents identified stress (8%) and sleep deprivation (3%) as significant contributors, even though these factors are widely recognised as playing a role in weight gain.

Dr Bryony Henderson, Numan’s Medical Director, comments: “Obesity is a complex and chronic condition triggered by factors outside of an individual’s control. The fact that so many people still see it as a personal failing shows how much work we have to do in educating the public.”

The role of medical treatment in obesity management

Our report also highlights public resistance to medical interventions such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, despite their proven effectiveness in managing obesity. 

Two in five respondents believe using these medications to lose weight is ‘cheating’, and over a quarter are concerned that they will discourage healthier habits. Yet these treatments are not about replacing lifestyle changes – they’re about enhancing them, offering people the support they need to manage a chronic condition.

As obesity costs the NHS approximately £6.5 billion every year², it’s vital that the public’s understanding of obesity management evolves to reflect medical realities. Medications like GLP-1s are a tool to help people regain control over their health, but they work best when combined with sustainable lifestyle changes.

Ava’s story: reframing weight loss and health

Ava, a Numan patient, understands the pressures of diet culture all too well. Growing up, she experienced the relentless focus on thinness, trying every fad diet under the sun and struggling with a negative relationship with food and body image. After having children, Ava knew she needed to approach her health differently: “I’ve seen benefits that go beyond just losing a few pounds. I have more energy, I feel less stressed, and I’m much less focused on food.” 

Ava’s story is a reminder that weight management is personal, and everyone’s journey is different. At Numan, we support our patients in making health changes that work for them – without judgment or shame.

The next steps 

The State of Obesity Report makes it clear that public attitudes toward obesity need to change. At Numan, we’re committed to leading that change by educating the public, dispelling myths, and providing access to medically supported weight management solutions. 

The numan take 

Obesity is a complex condition, not a failure of willpower. With the right tools, support, and understanding, it can be managed effectively. By shifting the focus away from blame and towards education, we can create a healthier future for those struggling with their weight.

References:

1. Herrera, B. M., & Lindgren, C. M. (2010). The genetics of obesity. Current diabetes reports, 10(6), 498–505. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-010-0153-z

2. How we’re tackling obesity in England, DHSC Media Team, Feb 2024. https://healthmedia.blog.gov.uk/category/public-health/obesity/ [Accessed Sept 2024]