Two months ago, Japan put a new law into effect...companies and local governments must now measure the waistlines of Japanese people between the ages of 40 and 74 as part of their annual checkups.
Those exceeding government limits — 33.5 inches for men and 35.4 inches for women will be given dieting guidance if after three months they do not lose weight. If necessary, those people will be steered toward further re-education after six more months. The country's Ministry of Health argues that the campaign will keep the spread of diseases like diabetes and strokes in check.
Now, I have wide, baby-bearing hips and a full-figured body. Yes, I could stand to lose some weight...about 25 pounds is my actual goal...but I don't think I could ever fit into the 35.4" waist requirement.
Putting a legal issue into an already sore topic like weight is bound to increase other issues...eating disorders, depression, and suicide are the ones that come to mind immediately...
Well ... the only thing that comes to mind is .."that's just fucking stupid" (pardon my french) ... there's a word for that it's called discrimination.
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