Report: 1 in 4 young adults too obese to join military - KATV - Breaking News, Weather and Razorback Sports

(CNN) - Childhood obesity is more than just a health risk. A group of retired military leaders is now calling it a national security issue.

One in four young people are now so overweight they can't join the military. That's according to a new report from the advocacy group Mission: Readiness.

Part of the problem, they say, is all the candy and junk food kids eat every day. The group has been working to get rid of junk food in schools. It says schools are ultimately part of the solution.

The Defense Department spends an estimated $1 billion every year on obesity-related medical for active duty members, their families and veterans.