Sun Life identifies health worries of 'Generation O' in Asia

Asia's 'Generation O' is overworked, overweight and overwhelmed according to a survey by Sun Life Financial Asia.

A survey of 25 to 55 year olds in eight countries across Asia has realised a disconnect between awareness of health issues and action to tackle them.

For example, in Hong Kong only 45% were positive about their overall physical and mental health compared to 63% regionally, however only 51% said they are highly motivated to take action about this, compared to 72% across the region.

Hong Kong-based Kevin Strain, president and CEO of Sun Life Financial Asiam said: "What we are seeing is the emergence of what we are calling Asia's 'Generation O' - a demographic that is overworked, overweight and generally overwhelmed." 

He added: "While they want to make changes in areas of their lives that are largely within their control, such as exercise, nutrition and stress management, that desire hasn't yet been successfully converted to tangible action that leads to sustained behaviour change. But the need for change, and population-scale change at that, is urgent."

Demographically middle aged males are most likely to be smokers, have high cholesterol and high blood pressure, whilst young females are worried about day-to-day finances and the cost of healthcare.

35 to 44 year olds are the most unhealthy group of 'Generation O'.

The Sun Life Asia Health Index is based on the findings of an Ipsos survey of over 5000 Asians from 25 to 55 years of age. The survey was conducted in China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

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• Topics
• Asia
• Private Medical Insurance (PMI)