Obesity is a major driver of cardiovascular disease, increasing the risk of hypertension, heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. Without proper intervention, this results in skyrocketing healthcare costs, reduced life expectancy, and poor quality of life.
The Growing Crisis:
- Obesity Prevalence: More than 40% of U.S. adults are classified as obese, with the rate projected to rise.
- Cardiovascular Disease Burden: Over 18 million deaths globally are attributed to cardiovascular disease each year, with obesity being a leading contributor.
- Health Expenditures: Cardiovascular diseases related to obesity cost the U.S. healthcare system more than $300 billion annually in direct medical expenses.
The Cost of Inaction:
Without a structured cardio obesity care navigation system, the long-term costs include:
- Frequent ER Visits: Obese individuals with heart conditions have a 2.5x higher likelihood of emergency room visits.
- Hospitalizations & Surgeries: Uncontrolled obesity leads to higher rates of heart bypass surgery, valve replacements, and angioplasty.
- Medication Dependency: Without lifestyle interventions, patients remain dependent on multiple high-cost medications.
- Workplace Productivity Losses: Businesses lose $1,500 – $3,000 per employee annually due to obesity-related absenteeism, reduced efficiency, and disability claims.