A Mindshift on Obesity: Rethinking the Costly Epidemic

There are many preconceived ideas about obesity, but a new University of New South Wales' research paper has debunked the myths that it's all about lack of willpower or lousy lifestyle choices. Obesity presents a high cost to the public purse, employers and individuals. With almost 30% of Australians now classified as obese, the epidemic requires new solutions – and fast. A trial of cognitive remediation therapy now underway looks likely to present some leads to complement the boss's standard fitness incentives, such as a corporate gym membership or cycling club. Conquering the battle of the bulge may be more about changing the way we think, suggest the researchers.