Public Policy Approaches to Addressing Adult Obesity: A Position Paper From the American College of Physicians

Forty percent of U.S. adults have obesity, a complex condition determined by genetics, behavior, environment, and other modifiable and nonmodifiable factors. Obesity is associated with certain comorbid conditions, including type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, and some cancer types, and may increase the severity of communicable illnesses, such as influenza. Treatments of obesity include behavioral modification, pharmacotherapy, and surgical procedures, but high cost and coverage restrictions are a substantial barrier for many patients. In this position paper, the American College of Physicians (ACP) offers recommendations on how policymakers can increase the affordability and accessibility of obesity treatment for adults and address modifiable factors that contribute to obesity, like diet and physical activity. ACP also includes recommendations on reducing stigma associated with obesity, improving understanding of obesity among physicians, increasing access to healthy food, and curbing the proliferation of unhealthy, highly processed fare. Population health strategies for addressing obesity are also discussed.