Ahead of Obesity Awareness Week (11-17 March 2007), Norwich Union has advised fatties to lay off the cake. Piling on the pounds is likely to bulk up life insurance premiums, says the insurance provider, with a clinically obese person facing paying nearly twice as much for their cover as a person of “normal” weight.
“Obesity dramatically increases the likelihood of a number of chronic medical conditions including high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. It can also put a tremendous strain on weight bearing joints especially the hips and knees, leading to a number of mobility problems,” says Tony Jupp, chief underwriter at Norwich Union.
“In addition, many overweight people are extremely sensitive as to how they are perceived by others and these concerns can often lead to periods of anxiety and even depression. The cost of life insurance cover has to reflect these additional risks.”