Is Obesity Covered By Disability?

It’s no surprise that the U.S. has been dealing with an obesity epidemic. With obese comes various serious health issues, but should obesity be cause for a disability claim? As of now 35% of the U.S. population have a BMI of at least 30 and are therefore in the obesity category.

Disability Benefits

Disability benefits is not currently offered to people simply for having a BMI higher than 30. However, obesity does lead to serious health issues like cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Being overweight will lead to physical issues like joint issues in combination with other diseases which could impede on the ability for that person to work. If someone is to the size that they have decreased mobility and difficult moving, then they may qualify for SSD benefits.

If your claim is denied, as 70% of initial claims are, then hire a lawyer to appeal it for you.

Workplace Discrimination

Believe it or not, but people with obesity experience more bias than ethnicity or sexual identity. Yale studied obesity in the workplace and discovered that obese people earn three to six percent less than non-obese coworkers. They are less likely to be promoted or hired.

Despite the increased discrimination, Michigan is the only state that has considers overweight workers as a protected class for education, job, or discrimination.

Related Post: Clueless When it Comes to Benefits? You’re Not Alone

Medical Ramifications

The National Association for the Advancement of Fat Acceptance (NAAFA) reported that one in three doctors have a negative reaction to overweight people. Some physicians refuse to treat obese people.

Transportation Concerns

Recently Kevin Smith wasn’t taken off a flight because he didn’t purchase two seats and couldn’t occupy one due to his size. U.S. airlines have a policy that clearly states larger passengers need to get two seats or purchase business or first-class seats that will fit their bodies.

Make sure you have a qualified OC social security lawyer review your case.

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