Edelman's Health Engagement Barometer 2010 report reveals that 65% of US respondents believe "it is as important to protect the health of the public as it is to protect the environment."

For many respondents, this is an issue of transparency, with 74% agreeing that it's important for companies to communicate the health risks of their products or services. Significantly, it's not just a matter of refraining from action that has an adverse effect on public health.

Seventy percent said companies should play a role in "educating the public on health topics related to their products or services;" while 63% believe companies should be involved in "helping to address obesity;" and 64% that "supporting the health of their local communities" is vital. Fifty-three percent expect companies to be "participating in health public policy."

Relatively few (29%) of the poll's US respondents said they're willing to pay a premium for the products and services of a company they view as acting effectively to address health issues.

But that's not because they regard such corporate action as unimportant, emphasizes the report . Rather, it reflects the public's belief that it's one of the indispensable things businesses must do.

"When it comes to health, the public believes it's not the icing, it's the cake," says Nancy Turett, global president, health at Edelman.

 

Factual data only is sourced from the original attributed article. The data is then enhanced by additional research and comment.