Why lose weight? Reasons for seeking weight loss by overweight but otherwise healthy men

OBJECTIVE: To identify the reasons for seeking weight loss in overweight or obese but otherwise healthy men. DESIGN: Interviews, prior to intervention, with subjects who had volunteered to participate in a work-site-based weight loss study. SUBJECTS: Ninety-one overweight/obese male workers. Mean age 41, range 18-55 y, mean body mass index (BMI) 31.0, range 26.2 - 41.6 kg/m(2). MEASUREMENTS: Anthropometric measurements; body weight and height. Body mass index calculated. A short interview using open questions to determine the individuals reason for seeking weight loss. RESULTS: The message that weight loss is beneficial to health for the overweight was recognized by all subjects regardless of BMI, and was reported as the main factor for attempting weight loss. Improved fitness and effects on appearance and well-being were reported half as often as the primary reason for weight loss. CONCLUSION: Overweight lay members of the public have accepted the health education message that weight loss can improve health. Overweight but otherwise healthy men who responded, of their own accord, to an electronic mail message offering help to lose weight did not regard obesity and overweight as primarily a cosmetic issue. This is still, however, important, especially to younger people.