Obesity: America's Quiet Epidemic

OBESITY: America's Quiet Epidemic

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1

Introduction ..........................................................................................03

SECTION 2

Purpose ...............................................................................................03

SECTION 3

42% by 2030......................................................................................................................03

SECTION 4

A Heavy Burden....................................................................................04

SECTION 5

Parents Need Training ..............................................................................05

SECTION 6

Tipping the Scales....................................................................................06

SECTION 7

Conclusion........................................................................................................................ 06

SECTION 8

References ...........................................................................................08

OBESITY: America's Quiet Epidemic

INTRODUCTION

In today's world of let's do more with less, society has adopted a hurry-up attitude. A by-product of this attitude is the sacrifice of healthy eating. Fast food has become the norm and is no longer the temporary stop-gap for those with busy lifestyles. As a husband, a father, and a friend, I have become increasingly alarmed for the safety and well-being of my family and friends. Over the last several decades, it's been implied obesity is a genetic disorder. Over the last few years however, research has pointed the finger at lifestyle choices, not genetics, as the culprit responsible for our "growing" nation. People are choosing fast food, the couch, and a sofa over preparing healthy meals, and living an active lifestyle.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this paper is to create awareness regarding the omnivore's dilemma....a dilemma which is making America super-sized at alarming rate. I would like to establish a dialog to find resolution to this dilemma and also discuss the impact it has on various levels of society. I believe this a serious issue, not only within our country, but also on a global scale.

42% by 2030

In an article for USA Today, Hellmich (n.d., para 01) stated, "Obesity could affect 42% of Americans by 2030." 42%! That is an astounding number. If correct, in a little over 17 years, almost half the country will be significantly overweight. In 2010, research supported statements claimed approximately 36% of adults were obese and 6% were severely obese. That's nearly 30 pounds over healthy weight and 100 or more pounds over a healthy weight...respectively (Hellmich, n.d.). The article also included a "breakout text" which covers obesity statistics from 1962 to 2010.

OBESITY OVER TIME

Percentage of obese adults, ages 20 to 74:

1962: 13%

1980: 15%

1994: 23%

2000: 31%

2004: 33%

2008: 34%

2010: 36%

(Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

If society continues down this path, I believe the future has a dim outlook at best. We have to make a change and the change begins within. I believe a possible solution to this problem lies in informing society of the trend analysis. Let the people take charge and have a hand at saving themselves.

A Heavy Burden

Obesity is having a profound effect on society's health. A highly noticeable increase in heart disease and hypertension has taken place. In 2008, it was estimated one out of every four Americans has a form of heart disease and one of every three is diagnosed with high blood pressure (Lauer, 2008).

In 2008, the results of a study concerning obesity policies suggested carrying extra weight on our bodies is a significant factor to over 20