Study Shows Conclusively That Obesity Increases Risk of Death

The largest study of its kind, published in today’s New England Journal of Medicine, has found that being obese increases the risk of death at all ages. The study, conducted by the American Cancer Society, followed more than 1 million Americans from 1982 through 1996 and showed conclusively that obesity led to an increased risk of both heart disease and cancer.

“The evidence is now compelling and irrefutable,” said Dr. JoAnn Manson of Harvard University. “Obesity is . . . the second-leading preventable cause of death in the United States after cigarette smoking, so it is a very serious problem.” An estimated 55% of Americans weigh more than they should.

Compiled by Times medical writer Thomas H. Maugh II