Unfit to Serve – Obesity is impacting national security

This infographic outlines how the obesity epidemic in the United States impacts our national security.

Key highlights from the infographic include:

Nearly one in four young adults are too heavy to serve in our military.

Obesity is among the top three reasons why young adults are ineligible to serve.

Obesity among active duty service members rose 61% between 2002 and 2011. These individuals are less likely to be medically ready to deploy.

Both obesity and low levels of physical fitness increase the risk for injury among active military personnel.
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Improved nutrition and increased physical activity can build a strong nation.