WASHINGTON ÷ Overweight Americans might already blame fast food meals for their size, but after a George Washington University professor finishes his work on an upcoming lawsuit, obese individuals may send their medical bills to McDonald's.

John Banzhaf, a GW law professor, is currently working on a case on behalf of Ashley Pelman and Jazlen Bradley, two overweight 8-year-old girls who "were lured into McDonald's with playgrounds and tiny toys," he said.

The complaint was filed in the New York State Supreme Court on Aug. 22, but a trial date is yet to be set.

"To get the little toys, you have to buy the meal," Banzhaf said.

Banzhaf contends McDonald's birthday parties, which include games and prizes along with hamburgers and fries, are also to blame because the girls have to eat "greasy" food if they want to be accepted into a particular social ring.

Although he noted individuals should take some blame for their obesity because they choose the foods they eat, Banzhaf said 8-year-olds are incapable of making health-related decisions.

"It is hard to argue that these girls have personal responsibility," he said. "If girls can't understand the consequences of sex at 16, it is hard to say that girls of 8 can understand the consequences of eating greasy food."

Some experts said increasing obesity in children is linked to the popularity of fast food restaurants.

"Fast food restaurants are obviously trying to attract young kids with toys and easy meals," child psychologist Beth Liederman said. "You can definitely place blame (for the children's obesity) on the restaurants because of the colorful advertising."