A fear of judgement about weight is causing around two in five Australian women to avoid doctor visits, new research says.

Data from healthcare provider Juniper says more than half of women feel judged, and just over 40 per cent skip check-ups on health issues because of it.

Endocrinologist Ramy Bishay said overweight women are more likely to feel that GPs can only offer diet and exercise advice.

“In Australia, … [people] take [an average of] nine years to see a healthcare professional for our weight,” he said. “Whereas if you look at other countries, it’s an average of six years.

“Australia has a lot of work to do.”

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