The Salvation Army says figures in a new survey suggesting people care more about their weight and appearance than children's health, should be a wake-up call.
The survey, commissioned by Southern Cross Healthcare, questioned 867 women and 625 men.
Of the women, 52% said their weight and appearance was a main concern, while 47% named children's health as a priority.
Men rated children's health below heart disease, fitness, appearance, and stress.
Salvation Army policy director Major Campbell Roberts said the well-being of children should have rated higher.
He said if the statistics are accurate, effort is needed to change the outlook of both women and men.