But in the Foundation's survey, only one out of every four overweight Canadian ages 20 to 69 reported that their doctor counselled them to lose weight. Among the survey respondents ages 20 to 39 and overweight, only 12% reported their doctors had told them to lose weight, increasing to 28% among those 40 to 59, and 32% among those 60 to 69 years old.

In addition, only half (48%) of overweight or obese Canadians ages 20 to 69 reported having their waist circumference measured, either by themselves or by a healthcare provider. A large waist circumference indicates that excess weight is accumulating around the middle and is a risk factor for high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.

"The good news is that most Canadians feel comfortable talking with their doctor about their weight and feel weight is part of their doctor's responsibility for health," says Dr. Wharton. "There may be a time issue - 30% of Canadians feel their doctor doesn't have the time to deal with weight - but it's important that more Canadians have these conversations. Talking to their doctor and asking to have their waist circumference measured can be an important first step towards starting important conversations about the health effects of being overweight."

Reaching a healthy weight....and maintaining it

The Heart and Stroke Foundation has introduced the Heart&Stroke Healthy Weight Action Plan(TM) - a free, personalized, 12-session online resource - to help Canadians achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The program mirrors the experience of sitting down with a weight-loss counsellor. The web-based counsellor provides a structured program and resources to help set realistic goals and help you make lifestyle changes that will last a lifetime. You can also use the Healthy Weight Action Plan with your doctor or a dietitian to help you achieve a healthy weight.

"I applaud the positive and nonjudgmental tone the Foundation has achieved in the Healthy Weight Action Plan and its strong focus on healthier behaviours," says Dr. Arya Sharma, Obesity Research Chair at the University of Alberta.

Slow weight loss is best and most realistic for keeping the weight off long term; one to two pounds (1 Kg) a week is sufficient. A modest loss of as little as 5% of body weight can reduce your high blood pressure and total blood cholesterol.

Source: HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION OF ONTARIO