obesity

 Obesity:
Obesity is an excess of body fat, and it's one of the most common health problems in the United States. About one-third of all American adults are considered to be obese. Obesity affects both adults and children. Approximately 9 million (about 15%) of American children aged 6 to 17 are obese, a percentage that has doubled since the 1960s.
Taken from http://www.intelihealth.com

 Reasons for obesity:

Time constraints: People have very busy lives and they have no time to make nutritious meals at home. Hence fast food and other such unhealthy food is becoming more popular and as a result obesity goes on the rise.

Genetic: Some people have the misfortune of inheriting a genetic disease that will almost certainly make the person fat. However, for most people, weight control still lies with the individual.

Eating disorders: Some people binge causing them to gain weight.

Lifestyle: People who are inactive and spend most of their time being couch potatoes will gain weight if they continue being sedentary.

 Dangers of obesity:
Many health problems can arise. Examples are high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer. Being obese puts a person in grave danger as many potentially fatal health problems can arise.

Life expectancy decreases.

Joint problems and severe pain as ligaments in the knees are worn away.

Low self-esteem as people will feel self-conscious of their weight. May lead to depression and then suicide.

 How can we counter obesity:
Lead an active lifestyle so that fat is always being burned. Regular exercise will help keep weight down.

Modify diet: Place emphasis on more nutritious food like fruits and vegetables. Reduce intake of food such as fast food.

Raise awareness: Schools should educate their students on proper dietary habits and how to lead a healthy lifestyle. Should let students watch documentaries such as Supersize me to emphasise the effects of over-eating.

 What does the recognition of this disease imply on the arena of medicine and health science?

Attention is being brought to this disease. It should not be taken lightly hence prescription drugs are being made to counter the effects of obesity. It is a serious death causing many fatalities around the world. Hence it shows that more people are being made aware of this disease.

sharon 07a05