More than 1 out of every 4 health care dollars spent on Americans over age 40 is attributable to being overweight, obese or physically inactive.

Being overweight, obese or physically inactive are strongly associated with a variety of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, depression and cancer. Research printed in the October, 2005 edition of Preventing Chronic Disease estimates that the costs associated with being overweight, obese or physically inactive accounts for 27 percent of national health charges and 23 percent of health plan charges for Americans aged 40 and older.

Health-damaging behaviors such as lack of physical activity, and poor nutrition are major contributors to chronic disease. Promoting healthy behavior choices, through education and through community policies and practices, are essential to reducing the economic burden of chronic diseases and improving the quality of life. Engaging Americans in the management of their own health supports the cost effective use of limited health care resources.