Tampa , FL – On November 2, 2005, the OAC issued a letter to S. Robson Walton, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., urging the company to renounce their proposed discriminatory healthcare statements in a recent memo, titled “Reviewing and Revising Wal-Mart’s Benefits Strategy,” which discusses projected changes to employee benefits and hiring practices.

Wal-Mart, with its significant influence in the marketplace, greatly contributes to the denial of employment and medical treatment to individuals with obesity. “Obesity is a complex disease that requires access to treatment to better the quality of health and life of those affected by this disease. Wal-Mart’s proposals further perpetuate and exemplify the negative stigma and discrimination associated with obesity and morbid obesity. It is now time for Wal-Mart to take a leadership position in addressing this disease,” said OAC President and CEO Joseph Nadglowski, Jr.

Obesity is a serious health epidemic targeting more than 93 million Americans. There are more than 30 medical conditions associated with obesity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea and many more. Individuals who have obesity are at risk of developing one or more of these serious medical conditions, causing poor health and/or early death.

The OAC stands ready to assist Wal-Mart in developing a comprehensive prevention and treatment program for obesity to better serve their current and future employees.

About the OAC
The OAC is a nonprofit National charity dedicated to helping those affected by obesity. The OAC was formed to bring together individuals struggling with weight issues and provide educational resources and advocacy tools.