Hungarians most dissatisfied with their appearance, health report reveals

According to the STADA Health Report 2024, Hungarians rank among the most dissatisfied with their appearance and physical health across Europe. The representative study, conducted in 23 countries, found that only 32% of Hungarians are satisfied with their appearance, a figure significantly below the European average. In comparison, 71% of Uzbeks, 68% of Austrians, and 66% of Swiss respondents report feeling content with their looks.

Many Hungarians feel overweight

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The report reveals that 56% of Hungarians consider themselves overweight, with weight being the primary factor contributing to low self-confidence, Economx writes based on the report. The dissatisfaction is more prominent among women, who are more likely than men to view themselves as overweight, even though women are statistically more likely to have a healthy body mass index (BMI).

Despite these concerns, many Hungarians prefer to spend money on vitamins and supplements rather than on gym memberships or fitness equipment, indicating a reliance on nutritional support over physical activity for maintaining their health and appearance.

Not too many Hungarians rate their physical health as good

When it comes to overall physical health, only 39% of Hungarians rate their condition as good, significantly trailing behind the European average of 54%. This places Hungary near the bottom of the list, with higher figures reported in countries like Romania (67%) and Switzerland (66%). On the other hand, 40% of Hungarians rate their physical health as average, while 22% describe it as poor.

Interestingly, the report highlights that although only 1% of Hungarians have invested in plastic surgery, a significant number are open to the idea of cosmetic procedures. For instance, 41% would consider laser hair removal, and 23% are open to weight loss surgeries or more extensive cosmetic surgeries.

Aesthetic dental procedures remain the most popular cosmetic intervention in Hungary, with 10% of the population having undergone such treatments. Notably, 70% would be willing to opt for aesthetic dental work if it were free, suggesting that cost is a significant barrier.

Hungarian consume lots of vitamins and supplements

Despite the rising openness to cosmetic procedures, it seems that many Hungarians still prioritise basic health products over aesthetic enhancements. Vitamins and supplements are among the most common purchases, with a larger percentage of Hungarians investing in these than the European average. Cosmetic products follow closely behind, while spending on gym memberships and sports equipment remains lower in Hungary compared to other European countries.

Overall, the report paints a complex picture of health and body image in Hungary. While many individuals struggle with dissatisfaction about their physical appearance and health, financial constraints and priorities influence their choices. While there is an interest in improving physical appearance, particularly through cosmetic procedures, the costs associated with such treatments often prevent people from pursuing them. Instead, a preference for nutritional supplements and general health products suggests that many are looking for alternative ways to support their health and appearance.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com