We all know there is a worldwide epidemic of obesity and we all know people who "suffer" from its vast complications.  But did you ever wonder who is paying for the extra tonnage of food consumed by these people?  Who can afford 30,000 calories of food a day?  Gee, I sure would not want that food bill.  

Here's the Social Security Aministration to the rescue: "Disability Due to Obesity."  

According to the SSA, $77 million are paid monthly to approximately 137,000 persons who met obesity requirements for disability under criteria used prior to May 15, 2000, when a new policy was issued.

This cushy claim sees obesity as a severe impairment.

SSA will find that obesity is a "severe" impairment when, alone or in combination with another medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s), it significantly limits an individual's ability to do basic work activities...

...Obesity may cause exertional, postural, and manipulative limitations depending on the level of obesity and where the weight is carried. The ability to manipulate may be affected by the presence of adipose (fatty) tissue in the hands and fingers. The ability to tolerate extreme heat, humidity, or hazards may also be affected. Obesity may also affect an individual's social functioning due to loss of mental clarity and any underlying mental impairment such as depression.

In other words: eat more, do less, get more $$$...to eat more, do less, get more $$$...what the *%#! 

When I was fat I chose to eat less, become more active, and educate myself on these subjects.  My victory is a testament to the health and fitness industry.