How Obesity Affects Health

Cost to Society

Currently, over one third of US adults are obese. According to a study by researchers at Cornell, obesity is directly accountable for almost 21 percent of national healthcare costs. Medical costs are $2,741 higher for obese individuals, adding up to around $190 billion a year in health expenses.

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Review Date: 
January 6, 2014

Last Updated:
July 1, 2014