Obesity Epidemic Obesity Epidemic

Facts About the Global Obesity Epidemic

Around the world, there are over 1 billion overweight adults and this number just keeps growing. At least 300 million of these adults are obese. The health risks associated with the obesity epidemic include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Obesity is considered a public health problem because of its prevalence and the high costs of its treatment. Obesity contributes to a lot of the disability and disease our world faces today.

How did this Happen?

The causes of the obesity epidemic are a reflection of the changes in our world through economic growth, globalization, and modernization. Genetics play an important role but most of the obesity epidemic has to do with the fact that people are consuming far more calories than they expend.

In modern society, we use cars to get around and we eat pre-packaged, processed foods that are contributing to ill health and weight gain. We lead sedentary lifestyles that are full of technology like televisions and computers and we spend a lot less time working outside or even walking.

Globalization has contributed to the problem by spreading the influence of US culture throughout the world. There are now fast food chains in the most remote corners of the world. Obesity has only recently become a problem in Japan for example, where the traditional diet is extremely healthy. However, more and more Japanese people are consuming fast food and other processed foods and junk foods, which is causing a growth in the obesity epidemic.

What Can We Do About It?

In order to combat the obesity epidemic, we must work as a society to educate our children about weight management. Since obesity is a public health problem, there should be public policies implemented that promote the availability of health, low-fat foods, parks, and recreational facilities.

In order to lose weight and combat the obesity epidemic on a personal level, you must encourage your family and be a good example by engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day and eating well. Make physical activities like Frisbee, rollerblading, sports, and walking a part of your family's weekend activities and encourage your children to join sports activities at school. Cut fatty and sugary foods out of your family's diet and incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables.

Make no mistake about it. The obesity epidemic is a costly and dangerous problem. We need to work as a society to eradicate it but we also need to make small changes to our lifestyles in order to lessen its impact on a personal level.