Untreated Obesity causing cost increase

The Milken Institute recently released figures that displayed the economic cost of obesity to the USA. Obesity now costs the USA $1.4 trillion dollars, the vast majority of the money arises from the complications that are associated with a higher BMI. This in turn relates to the diseases that are common for untreated obesity. Interestingly, the evidence-based medicine expenditure was negligible in comparison to the other costs. Furthermore, the $64 billion dollars spent on diet and weight loss products was seen to be having little impact in the long-term.

The data shows that more must be done in the way of evidence-based research so that the prevention of obesity becomes a reality as does the avoidance of complications. Whilst the report calls for a collaborative effort by stakeholder, it also acknowledges the complexity of the problem as a whole. Therefore, the report goes on to say that whilst big actors must develop preventative measures, it is also down to personal responsibility in order to help make the change within the world.