The Economic Costs of Physical Inactivity and Obesity: Links for Statistical Information

If all inactive American adults became physically active, the potential cost savings in U.S. health care expenditures would be $76.6 billion in 2000 dollars, according to a study in the October 2000 issue of The Physician and Sportsmedicine. This article and other information on the high cost of sedentary living and obesity can be found at the following links:

Higher Direct Medical Costs Associated with Physical Inactivity

Changes in Physical Activity and Short-Term Changes in Health Care Charges: A Prospective Cohort Study of Older Adults
An article in Preventive Medicine that discusses cost savings of physical activity interventions.

A Surgeon General fact sheet report on health benefits of physical activity and the health burdens that could be reduced through exercise.

An article in the newsletter Research Digest on fighting the war against sedentary lifestyles. Source: President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.

Physical Activity Fundamental to Preventing Disease
A report on why physical activity should be a priority for Americans of all ages. Also provides information on the economic impact of inactivity. Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

A fact sheet on the economic cost of obesity and chronic diseases by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Obesity Among Older Americans
A new Center on an Aging Society data profile on obesity rates and the link between obesity and chronic conditions.