One request tonight, Mr. President

[MattNC]

Please level with the American people and tell them it will require some sacrifice on their part if we want health care costs under control. You said it would cost us nothing in your last primetime press conference, which simply isn't true. No, I'm not talking about taxes - though I do think more 'sin' taxes should be considered.

What I'm referring to is our unhealthy culture, and our well documented battles with obesity, diabetes, and the like, while often foregoing even minimal exercise.

As a recent study noted, obesity by itself costs as high as $147 billion annually now. http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/2009/r090727.htm

Reducing obesity won't solve our health care problems. I'm not misguided in thinking that. I also know that you simply telling Americans to eat better and exercise more won't do much by itself. And I realize for some Americans that it's a genetic problem that's no fault of their own. But it's a conversation we need to continue having, and we need to save health care dollars wherever we can. Americans taking better care of themselves is a low-cost start.

[SIMPLYB1980]

1. I think Obama should approach the issue of his health reform speech

the best way he sees fit. I do think this is an important issue, but he only has so much time, and he is not going to be able to get to each and every pet issue.

[Old Studentka]

2. K

R