Is Obesity A Disabling Condition? | Consequences Of Obesity

Blog

Contact Us For A Free Case Evaluation

Is obesity a disabling condition?

Published on April 11th, 2018 by Eric Slepian

The Social Security Administration defines a disabling condition as a mental or physical impairment that is expected to last for at least 12 continuous months. The condition must be medically determinable and prevent a person from engaging in substantial gainful activity.

People who suffer from obesity might therefore assume that it fits these criteria – but that assumption is usually not true.

Obesity on its own may not provide an adequate basis for disability benefits, unless it prevents a person from doing any job and is expected to cause death or last for at least a year. However, obesity is a common side effect or precursor to other conditions that could qualify as disabling.

Obesity as a consequence of other conditions

Obesity can accompany or result from serious health conditions like paralysis and amputation, as these can severely restrict a person’s mobility. Additionally, illnesses involving chronic pain or depression can make it difficult for a person to pursue certain exercise and dietary solutions to obesity.

Obesity as a risk factor

Obesity can put people at risk of developing potentially disabling conditions, including diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.

Obesity as a genetic condition

There are genetic conditions for which obesity is a main characteristic. For instance, Prader-Willi syndrome is a condition that leads to chronic overeating, weak muscle tone and obesity. While rare, these disorders can be disabling.

Examining your options

Obesity is a complicated condition that varies from person to person. This is why it is all but impossible to know for sure if obesity or any accompanying conditions will provide a basis for disability benefits without specific guidance.

To determine if you qualify for disability benefits due to conditions involving obesity, you can consult a Social Security Disability attorney in Arizona. Doing so can help you avoid costly assumptions or missteps that put your financial future in jeopardy.

Back to Blog

The firm has been in business for over 40 years

Contact Our
Arizona Disability
Law Attorneys at

Slepian Ellexson, PLLC

3737 North 7th St., Suite 106
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Phoenix Law Office Map

    GET THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

    How would you like to be contacted? Check all that apply.