A recent report from a nonprofit organization reveals that a majority of active duty service members in the US are categorized as overweight or obese, based on their body mass index. Matthew Wallin of the American Security Project expressed concerns about the growing rates of obesity and its impact on military recruitment. He emphasized the need for adequate support and resources for service members to combat obesity, stating that no one defending our country should face this battle alone.
The issue of obesity has also worsened in the general population, as more than half of young people in the US are now considered obese. Weight concerns have become a top reason for disqualification among potential recruits. The pandemic has further contributed to the increase in obesity within the military. Defense Department data shows that the obesity rate has doubled in the past decade, reaching around 21%. The American Security Project’s report emphasizes the need to address obesity as a health crisis that affects military readiness.
The report states that framing obesity as a lack of willpower or discipline prevents soldiers from seeking treatment and discourages intervention from commanders and healthcare workers. This approach only worsens health outcomes within the military. The nonprofit organization recommends that service members dealing with weight issues be assessed by a doctor for proper treatment. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Stephen Cheney, who co-wrote a previous report on this issue, describes it as a significant national security problem.
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