St. Lukes on Obesity

 Here are some germane points about obesity from St. Lukes

1.Obesity is a major health issue in America. 2.A BMI greater
than 30 defines obesity, while a while a BMI greater than 40
represents severe or morbid obesity 3.The majority of Americans
are overweight 4.Obesity contributes to the development of
numerous life-threatening or disabling disorders including:

a. coronary heart disease, b. hypertension, c. type II diabetes
mellitus, d. hyperlipidemia, (An excess of fats or lipids in the
blood.) e. degenerative joint disease, and f. obstructive sleep
apnea.

 5.Heavier men and women have an increased risk of premature
death. 6.An estimated $45 billion is spent annually in the
United States treating disease associated with obesity, with
total cost to society estimated at $140 billion. 7.Annual heath
care costs are 44% higher for patients with BMI greater than 35,
compared to patients with a BMI between 20-24.