Recognising
Obesity
Obesity is more than a number on a scale or a measurement. This reflects the nature of obesity as a chronic disease that needs ongoing care and support.1,2
You're not alone
About 2 in 3 Australian adults are living with overweight or obesity.3*
*Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Symptoms of obesity
Obesity is a multifactorial disease, and it affects each person differently.1 There are symptoms people living with obesity might experience, some you may already know about and others that are easy to overlook. This quick self-check can help you spot potential symptoms and start a more informed conversation with your doctor.
Quick Self-Check: Do any of these apply to you?
Breathlessness or feeling short of breath 1
Snoring 1
Problems moving and doing physical activity 1
Fatigue 1
Sweating 4
Isolation 4
Low self-esteem 4
Poor sleep 1,4
Depression or anxiety 1,4
Body pains 1,4
"The wear and tear on my joints is only going to get worse...if I am like this at 46, what am I going to be like in 10 or 20 years from now?"
RESEARCH RESPONDENT WITH LIVED EXPERIENCE*
Your results aren't a diagnosis - they're a conversation starter. Share a full picture of your medical history with your doctor so they can assess your individual needs.
Rubino F, et al. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2025:13(3):221–62.
Greenway FL. Int J Obes (Lond). 2015;39:1188–96.
Australian Bureau of Statistics. National Health Survey 2022 – Table 2. Summary health characteristics, by states and territories. Reviewed December 15 2023. Available at: https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/national-health-survey/2022/NHSDC02.xlsx [Accessed April 2026].
Lean ME. Proc Nutr Soc. 2000;59(3):331–6.