Poor diets are associated with 4, including the top 3, of the leading causes of death in the United States: heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes. Poor diets are also associated with other health conditions that contribute to premature mortality or reduced quality of life and productivity. Whereas it is not yet possible to determine the precise extent to which poor diets contribute to these health conditions, and thus determine the true costs associated with poor diets, this report provides information on the incidence, prevalence, and costs associated with health conditions commonly associated with poor diets and inadequate activity. Current dietary patterns are compared with Federal dietary recommendations. Possible reasons for current dietary pattems and USDA's efforts at improving diets are also described.