Thank you for the warm welcome to my new role with the STOP Obesity Alliance. It's been an exciting time as I settle in at the George Washington University. As I've been working with the STOP staff to discuss our body of work and future direction internally, the external obesity landscape continues to evolve rapidly.

Last week, the comprehensive obesity treatment guidelines were published by the Obesity Society, American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology in Obesity. The authors of this report, which include Donna Ryan who co-chaired the panel, deserve our gratitude. A long time in the making, this large body of work provides a sound evidence base to answer specific questions that have long been debated in the treatment and evaluation of obesity. Covered topics include the definition of successful weight loss and the confirmation that there is no "magic diet" when it comes to reducing weight. The report also addresses why successful weight loss should not necessarily be defined by a specific "ideal weight" or a BMI number.

This report contributes to our efforts to address obesity and change public perceptions about this disease. Eliminating stigma toward obesity is one of STOP's core recommendations. Many champions have been working to achieve this goal, including many STOP members. We are now beginning to see signs of progress. For example, a recent Gallup poll has shown a growing acceptance that obesity is not just about personal responsibility, but a disease that must be treated and managed. The poll showed that only 12 percent of those surveyed think it's acceptable for companies to refuse to hire people who are significantly overweight, compared to 16 percent in 2005. While the difference is slight, it shows improvement. The downside is that 39 percent of those polled also think that higher rates for health insurance are justified for those who are significantly overweight. While this percentage still reflects a minority, it indicates that a substantial number of people think it is acceptable to charge more for people who have this disease. My guess is that the response would not be the same if a person had heart disease or a sexually transmitted disease.

I'm looking forward to working with the members of STOP and you all as we continue to find ways to address this pressing issue. I welcome your thoughts. Please feel free to reach out to me at obesity@gwu.edu.

Best wishes, 

 

Obese Workers May Sue for Discrimination: EU Court Aide

July 17, 2014

Businessweek.com

By Aoife White

The article highlights an ongoing European Union's (EU) top court case that could "pave the way" for those with extreme obesity to be treated as disabled, as well as allowing workers with obesity to possibly sue for workplace discrimination. According to the article, if the EU Court of Justice should rule that obesity could be treated as a disability if it "has reached such a degree that it plainly hinders participation in professional life" and affects "mobility, endurance and mood.

How Much Does Sitting Negate Your Workout Benefits?

July 14, 2014

Runner's World

By Amby Burfoot

A study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that each hour of sitting erases eight percent of the health benefits from an hour of running. Study researchers suggest that sedentary behavior may increase disease risk through an impact on lower fitness levels.

Extreme Obesity Cuts Lifespan More Than Smoking: Study

July 8, 2014

Reuters

By Sharon Begley

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that individuals with extreme obesity, or with a BMI above 40, die earlier than their counterparts with obesity. The research, conducted at the National Cancer Institute, found that those weighing at least 100 pounds over their ideal weight die 6.5 to 13.7 years sooner than those with healthy weights.

Will You Be Obese? Look at Your Sisters, Brothers

July 8, 2014

HealthDay

By Steven Reinberg

Although older children in a two-child home with a parent with obesity are more than twice as likely to have obesity, having a older sibling with obesity may raise the risk more than five-fold for a younger child according to a study published in American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Study researchers found that because siblings can have a strong influence on the attitudes and behaviors of one another in relation to nutrition and exercise, siblings may play an even greater role in determining a child's health than their parents.

The Vast Majority of Baby Boomers Are Overweight or Obese

July 1, 2014

TIME

By Alexandra Sifferlin

A new U.S. Census Bureau report shows the vast majority of baby boomers are overweight or have obesity, which may cause diabetes and arthritis, among other conditions. According to the report, the percentage of overweight and obese Americans 65 and older has grown: 72 percent of older men and 67 percent of older women are now overweight or obese.