M'sia's Overweight Doubles Asia's Average - Survey

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- Home to a higher percentage of overweight and obese people than any other country in Asia, Malaysia could soon face some "hefty" health issues if people do not take steps to adopt a healthier lifestyle, according to a leading market information company, TNS.
Findings from the company's continuous consumer survey, Asiapanel, revealed that 38 percent of Malaysian housewives were classified as overweight or obese on the international scale of Body Mass Index (BMI) -- double the average of other Asian countries.
Highlighted by these latest TNS Asiapanel figures as an area perhaps worthy of address in Malaysia's battle of the bulge was its love affair with snacks.
The survey found out that those classified as either overweight or obese among Malaysians spent nearly twice as much on snacks than the average Asians, with biscuits proving particularly popular with the same group who spent more on them than those in any other country.
The survey revealed the problem was of particular concern among the Malay and Indian community.
With over three quarters of all those classified as obese being Malay and 45 percent of the Malay housewives surveyed reporting that they weigh in above healthy levels, the future may pose serious health concerns, TNS cautioned.
Commenting on the figures in a statement Friday, TNS Asiapanel Malaysia general manager Michael Hawkins said, "Health and well being is a worldwide concern and while obesity levels across Asia remain relatively low in comparison to western nations, Malaysia should take action now to stem further increases."