Obesity in Hispanics

Obesity in Hispanics

Introduction

In 2003, Surgeon Richard Carmona termed the epidemic of obesity as a “national crisis”. Furthermore, the Center of Disease Control (CDC) reports that obesity, in United States, is more prevalent among African-Americans, followed by the Hispanics. Nearly, 21 to 37% of Hispanics are found to be obese among fifty states (CDC, 2010). The rising prevalence if overweight and obesity not only leads to numerous health problems, but also proves to be a threat to employment, longevity. In addition, obesity is recognized as an economic burden for the state. The rising prevalence of obesity in Hispanics is a call for urgent actions for its prevention. The leading cause behind these rising trends is found to be acculturation among various ethnic groups (Wolin, Colangelo, Chiu & Gapstur, 2009, pp. 428-431).

Discussion

Hispanic male and females, of all ages, are found to have a higher prevalence of overweight, obesity, as well as, type two diabetes. In this population, obesity is linked with consumption of high Caloric diet, comprising of foods that are nutrient-poor, like high fat fast foods, high sugar sodas and sweetened beverages. Even though, most people are consuming similar diets, not corresponding to dietary guidelines, the risk for obesity increases several folds in Hispanics (Lopez, 2006).

Moreover, lack of physical activity is a principal contributing factor in the development of obesity. In California alone, approximately 46% of Hispanic male population leads a sedentary lifestyle. Studies prove that less than one in four adult Hispanic males engage in recommended 20 minutes physical activity, three times in a week. This is more damaging in adolescent, who are at greater risk of obesity and its associated severe medical illnesses. A strong association of physical inactivity is linked to watching TV, and playing video games. In the United States, children spend almost 5.5 ...