Fighting obesity

In recent years there has been an alarming increase in obesity in the United States. It's now considered a national epidemic and is a leading cause of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke, arthritis and other health problems. Ultimately, obesity decreases life expectancy by about seven years. Capitalizing on the fact that most individuals spend a majority of their time at work, Aurora Health Care has started offering an employer-based wellness program called Get Moving Wisconsin.

This program, which can be started at little cost to employers, promotes moderate physical activity, chiefly walking, among employees. This not only helps fight obesity and promotes a healthier lifestyle, studies have shown it also increases morale and helps employees achieve greater job satisfaction.

Since Aurora began its own walking program on May 1, more than 12,000 employees and family members have signed up to participate.

Additional information & resources about obesity.

• Information about Aurora's "Get Moving Wisconsin" program.
• View information from our "For Your Well Being Series"
  • Obesity: are you at risk?
  • Physical activity: the simple facts
• Aurora bariatric surgery services
• Interactive calculators to help you fight obesity
• Aurora Health Care unveils initiative to combat obesity and control health costs
• National epidemic of obesity drives health costs
• Aurora weight management classes and events
• Articles on obesity that may be of interest to you:
  • An overview of obesity
  • Eating disorder center
  • Conditions InDepth: Obesity
  • Food & nutrition webzine
• To get help researching obesity & related topics, Ask the Librarian
• Visit the American Obesity Association Web site
• If you'd like assistance choosing an Aurora physician, call toll-free (866) 4HEALTH or search online
• Meet doctors right in the comfort and convenience of your own home via video or DVD. Order now.