OBESITY IN AMERICA

Obesity in America

Table of Contents

Introduction1

Discussion1

Statistical Observations for Obesity in America3

Societal Tendencies5

Psychological Problems and Social Discrimination6

Need for Self-Monitoring and Reinforcement7

Concerns for Pediatric Obesity8

Clinical Obesity Programs and the Chronic Care Model9

Commercial Programs for Obesity11

Obesity Program Success11

Conclusion12

References14

Obesity in America

Introduction

It is a well-known fact that obesity represents one of the most distressing problems of the Western societies, particularly in the United States. The problem has reached an alarming level, much to the concern of the Western healthcare sector, where obesity is seen as a reason behind many ailments. It is because obesity affects the health of individuals in a direct way that the eating habits of the Western society are monitored to assess the impact of obesity on their health in the long term. It is especially a troubling incidence in childhood and adolescence, and that condemns millions of children to become overweight adults, with fatal consequences to their health.

In the context of defining obesity, we can say that obesity is a chronic disease of multifactor origin, which is characterized by an excessive accumulation of fat or hypertrophy, overall adipose tissue in the body. This means that when the natural energy reserve of humans and other mammals, stored as body fat increases to a point where it is associated with numerous complications such as certain health conditions, chronic health disorders or even mortality (Sturm, 2007).

Discussion

Obesity has multiple likely determinants, which can be best appreciated by considering the blended result of societal, genetic, and behavioral factors on an individual's health. Two significant tendencies in society may boost the risk for obesity. The first topic agreements are related to pattern of excessive consumption. The Food Guide Pyramid conceived by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and sustained by the Department of Health and Human Services, summaries the suggested intakes for five food assemblies, with foods recorded from base to peak in alignment of portion size.

According to the pyramid, carbohydrates should be consumed in the utmost amount, pursued by fruits and vegetables, protein and dairy, and fats. Only 1% of children and adults in America are meeting the nutritional intake recommendations from the Food Guide Pyramid, suggesting shortfalls in correct nutrition. This may be associated to the accessibility and ingestion of befitting, cheap, flavorful, and high-fat foods (Dietz, 2002). Furthermore, the mass media and the attractive promotional campaigns of the America's fast-food franchises lead to provocation in the problem of obesity. A large number of America's youth is consuming junk food, which is accessible, and convenient to consume round-the-clock.

Statistical Observations for Obesity in America

Two-thirds of American adults are obese or overweight and obesity epidemic in the country could derail the reform of the national health system. Obesity rates continued to grow in the United States during the past year, especially in 23 states, where obese adults reported past twelve months ago. Medical care costs rose, according to a report by Trust for America and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Both organizations urged the development of a national strategy to combat obesity, which causes ...