Survey-takers also mischaracterized their own weight. Only 11 percent considered themselves obese, when roughly 25 percent actually are. Respondents also believed themselves to be healthier than their neighbors Yet only half of Utahns report that they get the recommended amount of physical activity each week. And while a majority of Utahns claim to eat well, most research shows conclusively that they do not. This is striking in light of recent research that shows one-third of dementia cases may be preventable by addressing things like obesity, diabetes and physical inactivity.
No amount of self-deception, however, will change the gravity of the state’s current health crisis.