The title “A fine for being fat?” perfectly captures the spirit of the article. Dr. Sreedhar Potarazu’s article uses data and logic to explain the financial effects of obesity on different industries and businesses. In the article, Potarazu brings up the fact that the large drugstore company CVS recently sent letters to employees announcing that they must have weigh-ins and physicals or pay extra money each month on insurance. Drugstores are not the only companies being affected by the overweight human. In recent years the cost of flying has dramatically increased due to the escalating price of fuel. The author points out that how much passengers weigh is important to airlines for economic reasons--more weight means more fuel. Recently an economics professor from Norway proposed new ways to curb the airline’s problem. He suggested fares be based on weight or that the obese should be charged extra, while those of less-than-average weight should receive refunds. In my opinion, this brilliant idea might encourage weight and reward those with healthy lifestyle. The article also mentioned the financial problems associated with obesity, not only for overweight people for the entire population. Insurance costs could easily rise. For example, the “annual heath care costs for obese people is close to $150 billion.” Potarazu’s general hostility towards the economic effects of obesity is supported by his scientifically shocking article. The article is well-written. He uses no dramatic techniques to share his message but manages to craft a fine article.
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/03/28/fine-for-being-fat/
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