For overweight men ages 45 and older, the "High Five" factors of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugar/glucose, poor diet and low testosterone may be impacting their energy and health, sabotaging efforts to lose weight, according to Building Healthier America, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to reversing the negative trends of overweight and obesity in the U.S.
Survey results of 2,000 overweight and obese men released today by Building Healthier America found that fatigue and low energy are the most commonly cited reasons they lack motivation to lose weight. Among these men, it was reported that only 1 percent discussed all the High Five factors at their last doctor visit. Diet, testosterone and blood sugar/glucose were the least likely factors to receive talk time.
"We know that there is a connection between a man's growing waistline and their likelihood of being impacted by one or more of the High Five factors," said Richard Kahn, PhD, Chief Science Advisor, for Building Healthier America. "We also know that the High Five factors, like low testosterone, can negatively impact energy levels, which can have an effect on men's overall efforts to lose weight."
To elevate the awareness of the negative effects the High Five factors can have on the energy and health of overweight men, Building Healthier America has launched an important health initiative to empower men who are willing to take control of their health in spite of their growing waistlines.
The High Five program offers a destination online at www.BuildingHealthierAmerica.org that highlights the signs and symptoms of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugar/glucose, poor diet and low testosterone. The Web site also includes a printable "High Five Check List" that men can take with them to have informed conversations with their physicians about overweight and obesity. Men, or their loved ones, can share the checklist with others by sending them a "High Five" inviting them to view the information.
"As the number on the scale creeps higher each year, men should know the High Five factors," said Dr. Kahn. "Building Healthier America is pleased to offer new resources to men in an effort to have a greater chance of impacting their lives and the lives of their families.
Additional Survey Findings: