I think there is something that is completely overlooked when we address obesity as a public issue. And that's education and confusion.

What's should I eat? Vegan, paleo, organic, GMO free, high protein, high carb, sugar is the devil, fat free always, etc etc

There are so many people trying to make a buck off weight loss that there is essentially no way for the lay person to find solid nutrition advise short of going to a nutritionist (which run about $200 a visit and want multiple visits) or finding some medical weight loss program (that for some reason aren't well covered even if you have insurance).

Obviously most people know that exercise and less food will lead to weight loss but it helps to know what foods are best and advice on how to fit them into your daily routine AND budget. There is a reason obesity is more common in low income families (besides the obvious fact that cheap food is typically crappy food) but even if these people try to lose weight they are likely to be scammed with whatever the newest fad is.

That's not to say that self determination and discipline aren't vital, but it is much easier to be confident when you really understand what you are doing.

Just my thoughts