VA state workers kick off weight-loss challenge

    RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - State workers have started a team competition to lose weight.
    Gov. Bob McDonnell on Monday kicked off the “Governors Challenge 2010” program aimed at reducing obesity among the state’s 110,000 employees. An estimated 70 percent of them are considered overweight or obese, according to state officials.
    State officials also hope the program will encourage other Virginians to lose weight.
    The competition asks employees to form four-member teams and will track their progress before a final weigh-in on May 19. The goal is for each person to lose an average of 10 pounds.
    Six chronic health conditions related to obesity, including diabetes and coronary artery disease, represent about 27 percent of all inpatient hospital costs for the state health benefits program.
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    Information from: The Roanoke Times, http://www.roanoketimes.com
   
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