Hong Kong people prioritise ‘weight management’ over ‘weight loss’ as top health focus

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Despite strong health intentions, stress levels continue to rise, a new global study has revealed.

More than half of Hongkongers surveyed (54%) ranked physical health as their top wellbeing priority, far above the 35% global average, according to the Cigna Healthcare International Health Global Study 2025.

The study surveyed more than 11,000 respondents worldwide, including 1,000 individuals in Hong Kong in May 2025. Beyond physical health, financial and mental health emerged as the second and third most valued areas among Hong Kong respondents.

Notably, 36% of Hong Kong respondents focused on maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet, exceeding the global average of 33%. This reflects a strong culture of preventive health awareness.

Instead of pursuing weight loss, Hong Kong respondents showed a stronger preference for maintaining their current weight. In fact, 43% of Hong Kong respondents identified “maintain weight” as their top goal, ahead of the global average of 36%. Conversely, only 36% prioritised “lose weight” as a primary goal, the lowest proportion in the APAC region and far below the 46% global average.

When it came to weight management, Hong Kong people preferred natural or preventive health strategies over medical interventions. 

The most common methods for managing weight were:

• Regular exercise (63%)
• Diet plan/meal replacement (39%)
• Consultation with dietitian/nutritionist (6%)
• Use medication (3%)

Stress levels remain high

Despite strong health intentions, stress is on the rise. More than third-fourths (77%) of Hong Kong people reported feeling stressed, up from 69% in last year’s study.

The top three stressors uncovered were:

• Uncertainty about the future (41%)
• Personal finances (35%)
• Living costs (25%)

Workplace satisfaction also fell behind global norms. Only 43% of Hong Kong employees felt satisfied with their jobs, compared to 52% worldwide. Satisfaction with employee benefits was even lower at 35%, versus the global average of 39%.

AI in healthcare gains traction

As AI adoption in healthcare accelerates, nearly half (48%) of Hong Kong respondents viewed its integration positively, above the 45% global norm.

The top expected benefits from this initiative were listed as:

• Shorter wait times (44%)
• Lower administrative costs (40%)
• Better support for doctors (31%)

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