SEATTLE - With news of a study that links cancer to obesity, slimming down may prove to be more important than ever.

In King County, government workers are losing weight through a unique health incentive program.

While many office Halloween parties were packed with fattening goodies Wednesday, the treats were healthy in a King County government office.

"We have some apples, and some satsumas," said Diane Ferrero, a receptionist at the county health department.

It's part of King County's Healthy Incentives Program. Ferrero, 59, says it's made her healthy and saved her money by lowering her doctor visit co-pays. She's lost 40 pounds in the last two years, and is keeping them off.

"Every day I go out running," she said. "I'm really proud."

Under Healthy Incentives, Ferrero walks during her lunch break and does yoga and meditation and has a support group with her co-workers. One of her co-workers - King County Executive Ron Sims - is also on the Healthy Incentives plan. By last August, Sims had lost a lot of weight. His office says he's keeping it off.

The plan has 17,000 participants and many county workers are losing weight.

"Our uniform sizes are going down," said program director Caroline Whalen. "We're needing fewer XX large."

At a more high-calorie event across town, workers applaud the county's approach to health incentives.

"Keeping your employees healthy is a great idea," said Martha Bowden, a paralegal. "They don't call in sick, definitely pay you back in the long run."

Since Healthy Incentives began two years ago, King County government employees have lost three tons, collectively.