Combating Fat: Obesity Costs Include Health and Money

Obesity is costing patients and insurers alike a fortune in prescription drug fees and life insurance costs. When a person has a body mass index of 30 or more, he or she is considered obese. Height and weight are used to derive body mass index figures, making it a reliable measure of fatness.

Since obesity is the cause of a wide variety of serious health issues, obese individuals receive heightened term life insurance quotes. Those who are obese have a greater chance of suffering from heart disease, osteoarthritis, and Type 2 Diabetes. They are also at a greater risk of getting certain types of cancer, including breast, esophagus, kidney, colon, and endometrial.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and RTI International put forth a study stating that in the United States, the total health cost of obesity reaches $147 billion per year. This total takes into account the amount spent by individuals, private insurers, Medicare, and Medicaid on prescription drugs. From 1998 to 2006, the proportion of yearly medical fees resulting from obesity rose from 6.5 to 9.1 percent, an increase of 2.6 percent. Estimates compiled from national data reveal that obese individuals spent 42 percent more for medical assistance than people of normal weight in 2006, a figure of $1,429.¹

According to the CDC, nine states have obesity populations that are equal to or greater than 30 percent. 33 total states had an obesity population percentage equal to or greater than 25 percent. Since obesity has such a significant negative impact both physically and financially, CDC distributed a collection of fully researched obesity prevention and counteraction recommendations. The strategies put forth include various healthy eating policies and physical activity programs. ¹

CDC suggests that healthy, affordable food and drink should be made available along with support to consume them; breastfeeding is also encouraged. Individuals are urged to limit the amount of time they spend being sedentary, and to work with their community to advocate positive change. ²

CDC piloted an obesity prevention test with the International City/County Management Association in 20 communities. The study results recommended 24 measures that state health departments in Minnesota and Massachusetts are testing further. Strategies include improving the availability of healthy, affordable food and drink, and supporting schools that are within easy walking distance of residential areas.²

The CDC report is entitled "Recommended Community Strategies and Measurements to Prevent Obesity in the United States," and can be accessed at www.cdc.gov/MMWR. The Health Affairs financial paper is available at www.healthaffairs.org. ²

As appointed agents for a variety of highly rated insurance companies, Matrix Direct provides term life insurance at competitive costs. At Matrix, each client receives personalized recommendations based on their specific insurance needs. Seasoned, licensed Matrix life insurance agents are available to guide individuals through the application process.

Source:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention news release, July 27, 2009, summarizing "Annual Medical Spending Attributable to Obesity: Payer- and Service-Specific Estimates." http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/ 2009/r090727.htm

2. "Recommended Community Strategies and Measurements to Prevent Obesity in the United States," along with a companion implementation guide, appears in CDC's MMWR Recommendations and Reports, available at www.cdc.gov/MMWR. To view the economic paper published in Health Affairs, visit: www.healthaffairs.org