There’s strength in numbers. There are also trophies when numbers go down — if those numbers are on the scale.

Warren General Hospital is sponsoring the “Biggest Loser Corporate Challenge.” It will begin on Monday, Jan. 13, and conclude on May 29.

The weight loss challenge is intended to build on the success of the Wednesday Wellness Walks held earlier in the year. More than 350 people took part in the walks through downtown Warren.

Both the walks and the upcoming challenges are focused on promoting the health and wellness of the local community as ways to address some discouraging statistics.

According to information provided by the hospital, approximately 68 percent of Warren County residents are considered overweight or obese. Warren County is also significantly higher than the state average for deaths caused by diabetes, heart disease, cancer and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).

All companies in the area are invited to enter a team of employees who would like to lose weight in the challenge. The hospital will post each company’s weight loss percentage at the end of each month. Participation is free.

Teams with the highest percentage of weight loss on May 29 will be recognized and presented trophies for first, second and third place. Awards will be presented at the hospital’s wellness event in the summer.

Companies interested in entering a team in the challenge should contact Andrea Gurdak at gandrea@wgh.org to register.