Obesity is defined as having a body mass index, or BMI, of 30 or greater. BMI is a measurement of body fat based on height and weight. Being obese puts you at greater risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancer.
History
Obesity has increased significantly in the United States during the last 20 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It's a life-threatening condition estimated to affect 34 percent of adult Americans. In addition, over 65 percent of American adults are overweight.
Race/Ethnicity
Non-Hispanic black men and women have a higher incidence of obesity than non-Hispanic white men and women, with Hispanic men and women just behind them. In 2009, "U.S. News and World Report" reported three primary reasons for this disparity. The most overweight groups are less likely to engage in physical activity. These groups are also more accepting of body size and less likely to have an interest in weight loss. Also, these groups have less access to healthy foods and safe places to exercise.
Children/Adolescents
In 2007 and 2008, an estimated 16.9 percent of children and adolescents were obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC reports, "Among preschool children aged 2--5, obesity increased from 5.0% to 10.4% between 1976--1980 and 2007--2008 and from 6.5% to 19.6% among those aged 6--11." Several factors can contribute to obesity in children such as inactivity, poor diet and heredity.
Causes
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute evaluated several reasons why Americans are becoming overweight and obese. Lack of activity is a primary cause. Technology and conveniences are more prevalent; with more homes owning televisions and a computer, there is less time to exercise. Environmental factors such as work schedules, use of high-calorie convenience foods, lack of access to sidewalks and other places to be active and the inability to afford healthy foods can all contribute to obesity. Other factors such as age, smoking, medication use and medical conditions can also lead to weight gain.
Prevention
Healthy habits begin in childhood, but it is never too late to change the way you live. You should focus on living a healthy lifestyle instead of drastically changing the way you eat. If you are used to big portions, gradually decrease their size. Make healthy food choices whenever possible, including adding fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains to your diet. Get up and move with your family. Take a brisk walk, play a game of tag, dance around the room or do whatever you enjoy to become more active. Also, you should limit television or computer time to two hours a day or less unless it is work- or school-related.
References
- The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Obesity In Children And Teens
- "U.S. News and World Report": Blacks Have Highest Obesity Rates in U.S.
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Obesity in America
- American Diabetes Association: Obesity in America: It's Getting Worse
- Obesity in America: Statistics
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