The high cost of obesity
By 2035, it's estimated that if nothing changes in our approach to public health and in how individuals take care of themselves, there will be 126 million Americans who have obesity, totaling almost 47% of the adult population. You know the price you pay for carrying around excess body weight, visceral fat and inflammation, a seriously increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, dementia, certain cancers, and a roster of other chronic diseases.
But did you know that if you're obese, you're spending $1,776 more annually on medical expenses than someone who is a healthy weight? And if you're severely obese, it totals almost $3,400 more annually? That's the conclusion of a research letter in JAMA Network that looked at the cost of medical care for more than 700,000 privately insured folks ages 18 to 64.
Over the next decade, folks who have obesity may spend more than $2.2 TRILLION on extra medical costs because of health issues associated with excess weight.
So, let me save you money that's better spent on socializing, enjoying physical activities and discovering your passions and pleasures. My "You: The Owner's Manual Podcast" on iHeart and RadioMD gives you the rundown of what it takes to achieve and maintain a healthy weight -- and save big bucks! And to help you even more, my former writing mate Dr. Mehmet Oz has negotiated to radically reduce the cost of the GLP weight-loss drugs. I hope many Americans talk with their doctors about these often beneficial medications that can help them change their habits.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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