According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity has increased dramatically in the United States since 1990. Obesity affects health, lifestyle and the overall quality of life. It can lead to low self-esteem, depression and health related problems. Obesity affects children as well as adults and can lead to a lifelong struggle to lose weight and maintain health.
Definitions
Obesity is defined as an excessive amount of body fat. Recommended weight standards are based on a calculation of weight relative to height, referred to as body mass index (BMI). Obesity refers to a body mass index of 30 or more. The National Institutes of Health define the term "overweight" as a body weight that is at least 10 percent over the recommended weight for an individual.
Causes
Body weight is the result of genes, metabolism, behavior, environment, culture and socioeconomic status, the CDC explains. Obesity results from consuming too many calories and not getting enough physical activity, which applies to Americans as well as people worldwide. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, many Americans aren't very physically active. Some of the reasons for American inactivity include time spent in front of the television and computer during leisure and work hours. More than two hours a day of regular television viewing has been linked to being overweight and obesity. Americans also are targeted by ads from makers of high-calorie foods and fast-food restaurants.
Effects
Obesity can have an adverse effect on health. Obesity is a risk factor for diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, coronary heart disease and osteoarthritis. It is a risk factor for certain types of cancer, such as breast and colorectal cancer, as well as other health conditions. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that 300,000 American deaths per year are associated with overweight and obesity.
Childhood Obesity
Childhood obesity is a significant problem in American children. According to a 2005 National Center for Health Statistics report, more than 9 million children between age 6 to 16 are considered overweight. As with adults, overweight children are at an increased risk of developing health problems. Overweight children also may be at an increased risk of suffering from low self-esteem and poor body image; they may become victims of bullying and teasing by their peers. There are several contributing factors in childhood obesity, including an increased diet of high-calorie foods as well as less physical activity. Overweight children have an increased risk of being obese adults.
Prevention/Solution
The American Obesity Association states that a healthy environment encourages a nutritious diet and that physical exercise is important to treat and prevent obesity. Keeping a diary to log meals and exercise sessions can help track weight loss progress. The association also suggests monitoring weight regularly, setting realistic goals and developing a support network to help lose and maintain weight loss.
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