Morning Read: Obesity epidemic can’t be blamed solely on lack of willpower, IOM report says

  An “ambitious” report from the Institute of Medicine says that wide-ranging and systemic changes […]

 

An “ambitious” report from the Institute of Medicine says that wide-ranging and systemic changes will need to happen to solve America’s obesity epidemic. It’s too simple to blame obesity on a lack of individual willpower. Possible solutions include the implementation of a soda tax, a reduction in farm subsidies and changes to zoning laws that make outside exercise easier.

Health insurers aren’t the best negotiators. A Health Affairs study found that health insurance companies are not being aggressive in negotiating rates with “must-have” hospitals, meaning U.S. patients are stuck paying higher prices. “There is a dynamic in the market that makes it impossible for a private payer to change anything,” said one person interviewed by researchers.

A controversy over drug approvals is growing in India. An Indian government panel reviewed 42 pharmaceuticals approved in the country and found that an “overwhelming” amount were approved with no scientific evidence.

California leads the U.S. in angel investment deals, with 21 percent of all the nation’s activity. But, somewhat surprisingly, an infographic shows that the Great Lakes region is next with 15.9 percent, followed by New England at 14.6 percent. Check out the graphic for lots of other insightful numbers into how angel investing in the U.S. shapes up.

Motivation for seniors to support ObamaCare? Retirees could pay about $20,000 more for healthcare over the course of retirement if the Supreme Court overturns the controversial health reform law better known as ObamaCare, according to a report from mutual fund manager Fidelity Investments.

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