FEATURED LEGISLATOR COLUMN
OBESITY IS KILLING OHIO. CONGRESS MUST STEP IN TO HELP
REPRESENTATIVE DONTAVIUS JARRELLS
As a State legislator, I am compel- led to shed light on an issue that af- fects countless Ohioans, including myself—obesity. This topic holds personal significance for me, as I have witnessed the struggles indi- viduals endure in obtaining the re- sources they need to address this health challenge. Obesity is not a mere statistic; it is a relentless adversary that haunts millions of lives. It is a battle fought not only in the shadows of self-dou- bt but also in the harsh judgments of society. People often view obesity as a reflection of personal failure, a lack of discipline or willpower. But let me tell you, it is not a choice. It is a chronic disease. The consequences of obesity are devastating. It is the second leading cause of preventable death in our nation, according to the National Institute of Health. Yet, it seems that the urgency to address this cri- sis falls behind other health concer- ns. In Ohio, the obesity situation is dire. Almost half of our state’s popula- tion – our neighbors, friends, and loved ones – is currently living with obesity. Even our seniors, who have wea- thered the storms of life, are not spared from this relentless disease. Over the past generation, obesi- ty rates among Americans over 65 have nearly doubled. To make mat-
ters worse, the very system designed to provide care and support, Medi- care, denies coverage for essential anti-obesity medications. We must fight for our seniors, for their right to a healthy and dignified life. New medications can help fight obesity But amidst this struggle, there is a glimmer of hope—the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, federal legisla- tion that was introduced this July in Congress. It would update Medicare to co- ver evidence-based obesity treat- ments, including FDA-approved medications, and would expand ac- cess to intensive behavioral therapy for obesity, empowering more heal- thcare providers to deliver essential support to Medicare beneficiaries. Moreover, addressing obesity is a matter of health equity. Black and Hispanic popula- tions are disproportionately affec- ted by chronic diseases stemming from untreated obesity. By fighting against obesity, we fight for justice and equality, ensuring that everyo- ne has an equal chance at a healthy and fulfilling life. Let us not overlook the economic toll of obesity. The costs, both direct and in- direct, are staggering—a crushing burden on individuals and our healthcare system, estimated at $1.4 trillion. By reducing obesity
rates, we can alleviate this financial strain. As we eagerly await the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act’s progress through Congress, I implore Ohio’s entire congressional delegation to take a stand. Led by our esteemed Sen. Sher- rod Brown, let us unite in support of this critical legislation. Brown has been a champion for our working families and retirees, and his en- dorsement of the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act would be a testament to his unwavering commitment to the well-being of Ohioans. The time for action is now. We cannot allow obesity to claim more lives, shatter more dreams, and per- petuate a cycle of despair. We owe it to ourselves, our loved ones, and the countless individuals whose voices go unheard in the depths of this struggle. Together, we can build a heal- thier Ohio and nation for all of us. State Representative Dontavius Jarrells is a member of the Ohio State House of Representatives, representing District 1 (D-Colum- bus), and serves as the assistant minority leader.
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