Weight Loss Industry

According to the American Obesity Association, approximately 127 million adults are overweight – 60 million are obese and 9 million are severely obese. Currently, 66% of Americans are contributing to this rising epidemic. During the last 20 years, obesity has risen among adults in the United States with 30 percent of those adults being 20 years and older.

Health and Social Impact

• Obesity increases the risk of illness from approximately 30 serious medical conditions.
• Earlier onset of obesity-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, are being reported in obese children and adolescents.
• Individuals with obesity are at a higher risk for impaired mobility.
• Overweight or obese individuals experience social stigmatization and discrimination in employment and academic situations.
• The age group with the highest prevalence of overweight and obesity among men is 65 to 74 years, and among women, 55 to 64 years.
• The prevalence of overweight is higher for men (67%) than women (62%).