Lose Weight, Save on Health Insurance

Obesity is on the rise in America, and it's causing a number of serious health concerns. The Department of Health and Human Services reports that obesity is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high blood cholesterol, depression, sleep apnea, asthma, stroke, musculoskeletal disorders, several forms of cancer and a host of other conditions.

Keeping yourself slim not only keeps you healthy, but it can save you money on your health insurance, too.

America's Weight and Health Insurance Epidemic

People in the U.S. are heavier than ever, and the problem is getting worse. Data found in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey shows that nearly 2/3 of Americans are overweight or obese. Children are growing heavier too; there are twice as many overweight children today than in 1980.

Author Eric Schlosser's "Fast Food Nation" reports that in 1970, Americans spent $6 billion on fast food. In 2001, that number had grown to a staggering $110 billion--more than the amount spent on movies, books, magazines, newspapers, videos, and recorded music combined.

In all, the Surgeon General estimates that excess weight leads to 300,000 U.S. deaths every year.

People With Excess Weight Spend More on Health Insurance Costs

Carrying around excess weight hurts your pocketbook. On average, people who are obese spend 36% more on health insurance and 77% more on medication than those of normal weight (Rand Corporation). Obese persons spend more on health services than daily smokers and heavy drinkers.

One of the primary reasons insurance companies decline health insurance applications is an applicant's excess weight. If an insurance company accepts an overweight applicant, they often increase the premium to twice the amount of a non-overweight applicant (Global Health Insurance).

Weight and Health Insurance - Body Mass Index

A body-mass index is a statistical formula that compares a person's height and weight to determine if they're in a healthy weight range. Most health insurers take a person's BMI into account when setting premiums. People who are overweight or obese will likely pay significantly more on their health insurance premium. If a person's BMI is too high, some insurers may reject their application altogether.

Weight and the Health Insurance Industry

In total, 10% of all healthcare dollars are spent on the direct and indirect effects of obesity. According to the Insurance Information Institute, people who are overweight lose an average of three years on their lifespan. Obese persons will lose an average of seven years. An obese smoker's lifespan will be shortened over 13 years on average.

More than smoking, drinking, or poverty, obesity leads to higher rates of chronic illness.

If you're looking to live a healthier life, proper health insurance is the first step. Use our quote form to shop for health insurance quotes from top companies.