Americans spend $30 billion trying to lose weight -- on things such as diet sodas and foods, appetite suppressants, fitness clubs and dieting guide books or videos.

Our nation is obsessed with weight.

So why do we have an obesity crisis?

Health officials say obesity is to blame for $61 billion in health care costs a year.

Recent statistics from the Pennsylvania Department of Health reveal the counties of Snyder, Union, Northumberland, Montour as well as Centre and Columbia have 26 percent obesity rates. Mifflin and Juniata counties have 29 percent obesity rates.

Blame the pot pie and cheesesteaks, but maybe an important step could be to look past the whole idea of "blaming."

There is a stigma based on the perception that those who are overweight are responsible for their condition. The stigma, right or wrong, may make those dealing with obesity become defensive, to the point of resistance when it comes to losing weight.

Recent research at the Geisinger Obesity Institute in Danville seems to shed light on the problem -- a genetic disposition may make some people more susceptible to weight problems. In such cases, remedies, such as gastric bypass surgery, become the most effective means of achieving weight loss.

Doctors point out, though, that surgery is not needed in many cases. Psychology is more important than genetics for most people. Exercise and better dietary decision-making will help most people attain appropriate weights.

But, there is a reason fitness ads often use "before" and "after" photos, such as those featuring the hero who lost 245 pounds by eating subs and adding a little exercise to his daily routine.

Losing weight can be difficult and success is often short-lived. The Valley is blessed with a number of fitness centers and great expanses of rolling countryside -- perfect for autumn strolls. Whatever path to fitness works, follow it. Reasonable goals and expectations can be helpful.

The battle of the bulge ought to be a community fight -- once it becomes one, more of us will win the fight.