Obesity and the cost of healthcare


Cornell University recently came out with a study detailing how obesity effects the cost of healthcare.

Obesity accounts for 21 percent of U.S. health care costs

“Historically we’ve been underestimating the benefit of preventing and reducing obesity,” said lead author John Cawley, professor of policy analysis and management in the College of Human Ecology and professor of economics. “Obesity raises the risk of cancer, stroke, heart attack and diabetes. For any type of surgery, there are complications with anesthesia, with healing [for the obese]. … Obesity raises the costs of treating almost any medical condition. It adds up very quickly.”

Set aside some time to walk or exercise. A slight change in your eating habits can make a big difference over time.


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