Good news/bad news: Obese are cheaper to treat

The good news is that a recent study found that patients with obesity and those who smoke actually cost less to treat over their lifetime than people who are thin and healthy.

The bad news? They cost less because they don't live as long.

It seems like common sense -- people who live longer have higher health care costs. But researchers were surprised to find out that people with obesity and those who smoke actually cost less in the long run than those who are fit. The research pokes holes in the alarmist theory that the obesity epidemic will cost billions as the obese seek help for their health issues.

It's an interesting study. What do you think?