Obesity levels have tripled in much of the world since 1980, reports the World Health Organization, or WHO. In the United States, approximately one-third of the population is obese and another third is overweight, according to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 2007 and 2008. Obesity is at epidemic proportions, says the WHO, and it places people at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, some forms of cancer, infertility, breathing difficulties, musculoskeletal problems and other chronic health conditions.
The Facts
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a person as obese if she has a body mass index, or BMI, of 30 or higher. BMI is calculated using a person's height and weight. A person becomes obese or overweight by consuming more calories than she uses in physical activity. There are many contributing factors for this imbalance.
Diet
According to the WHO, diets have become higher in fat and sugars. People often eat out in restaurants, where food portions are larger than recommended and high in fat. According to the National Institutes of Health or NIH, healthy foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables are often more expensive than other items at the grocery market, preventing some people from buying and consuming them.
Lifestyle
According to the WHO, work has become less physically demanding for many people around the world. People sit behind desks at computers all day and rely on cars rather than walking or biking to get places. Schedules have become so busy with long work hours, lengthy commutes and numerous obligations that people find it difficult to fit regular exercise into their days. Busy lives make eating on the go more prevalent, and fast food and many convenience foods tend to be higher in fat and calories. A hectic schedule also means many people forgo sleep to get everything done. According to the NIH, studies have shown that the less sleep a person gets, the more likely he is to be obese. This could be due to the fact that hormones controlling appetite and the body's use of energy are released during sleep.
Genetics
According to the NIH, genes play a role in your propensity to be overweight or obese. However, the WHO says changes in society's behavior and nutritional habits are behind the global obesity epidemic.
Diseases and Medications
Health conditions such as an underactive thyroid, polycystic ovarian syndrome and Cushing's disease can cause weight gain and obesity, according to the NIH. Steroids, antidepressants and other drugs can also cause weight gain and contribute to obesity.
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