Obesity prevention advocacy

The Academy views obesity as a critical public health issue. Family physicians are essential in prevention, treatment and policy efforts to reduce its impact.

Female doctor consults an overweight white male patient.

U.S. adult obesity rates have more than doubled since 1980 and today exceed 30%; over the same time period, childhood obesity rates have more than tripled. The AAFP supports policies to reduce obesity rates as a matter of public health.

The role of family physicians in obesity prevention

Family physicians can play an important role in reversing this epidemic. They can provide dietary and exercise counseling and educate patients about the health risks that obesity triggers. They also can serve as advocates for structural reforms such as increasing community safety, building walkways and sidewalks and improving access to healthful foods.

Why does the AAFP advocate for obesity prevention?

Obesity represents a major risk factor for a variety of chronic illnesses treated by family physicians, including diabetes, hypertension, stroke, heart disease, some cancers and arthritis. If the number of obese Americans continues to increase at current rates, half of all Americans will be obese this decade, and obesity-related medical expenses will climb past $300 billion — approximately 20 percent of all health care spending.

The AAFP's approach to obesity prevention

The Academy works with state and federal agencies and other entities to develop sustainable strategies for improving the health of Americans and has taken action in such ways as:

  • Joining the National Alliance for Nutrition and Activity,

  • Supporting Farm Bill reauthorization proposals to increase nutrition education and healthful food access for participants in hunger programs,

  • Sharing expert commentary on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans,

  • Supporting Medicare coverage for obesity screening and counseling, and

  • Opposing policies that may increase food insecurity

Recent AAFP communications

Joint communications with other organizations

Related CME

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