Both men and women who are overweight are also jeopardizing their health. Obesity and sedentary lifestyles are responsible for 300,000 premature deaths every year, says this Mayo Clinic article. Obesity causes an increase in the risk of heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and high blood pressure. Obese women apparently aren't spending money on important screening tests that can protect their health. According to this HealthScout article, overweight women put off potentially life-saving tests like breast exams and Pap smears.
Embarrassment is cited as a possible reason for the delay.
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