Lexology January 23, 2025
Are you aware of the significant health risks and financial burdens associated with health plan members that are overweight or obese? Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as of 2019-2020, reports that approximately 42.4% of adults in the United States were classified as obese, highlighting the persistent nature of this public health issue. Obesity is also strongly associated with co-morbid chronic diseases that represent a heavy burden on the healthcare ecosystem.
The economic burden of obesity and its associated health conditions is significant. Obesity contributes to increased healthcare costs, productivity losses, and a higher prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. According to recent estimates from the American Heart Association, the total annual cost...