Here is something to add to the discussion. It doesn't really apply to Americans.
In Canada, as many of you know, we have public healthcare. Inevitably people who abuse their bodies (smoking, drinking, etc.) will cost more money to care for later in life.
When my Mother-in-law's hips needed to be replaced due to arthritis we visited her during her recovery. The ward was full of overweight women (it was a woman's hospital) who's knees had to be replaced because they had blown their knees due to carrying the extra pounds. This is just one example of how overweight (by this I mean really overweight) people cost more for the system in general. There are all kinds of other conditions that can arise from obesity that need to be treated.
I am torn on this issue. On one hand I would never deny anyone the right to proper health care coverage. On the other hand why should society shoulder the burden of someone's self destructive nature (i.e. smoking, drinking, overeating, etc).
Part of the issue that needs to be worked out is where do you draw the line on a fat person. When is the issue that they are fat, a condition and when is it due to "laziness and lack of self control"? With a smoker you can treat an addiction and you can institute policies to encourage less smoking.
I'm not sure what the answer is.
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"My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars."
- Old Man Luedecke
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