American Obesity: 2010

   Obesity is the fastest growing epidemic in the United States (“Steps to Preventing”). If people do not take a hold of their own lives and begin to make a significant change, they could die early. The U.S. suffers greatly from obesity and must grasp the severity of this disease. Americans need to realize the ramifications of obesity and what the government is doing to intervene.
   Over the past decade, obesity has developed into a nationwide concern affecting mass amounts of people. The number of obese citizens rises dramatically each year, taking a toll on America and many lives. According to a widespread survey conducted by the federal government, “33 percent of men and 35 percent of women were obese in 2005-2006” (ProQuest). Americans and government get frowned upon for having a multitude of obese citizens. Hence, if a pattern such as this continues, a surplus of issues will surely follow. In attempts to predict the trend of obesity, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development claims, “In 10 years, a full 75 percent of Americans will be overweight” (Keller). The economic downfall could worsen causing Medicare to rise and the health and well-being of the nation to plummet. It seems nearly impossible that the government could support more than half of the nation in medical costs alone. Therefore, the U.S. cannot afford to stay on the track leading to an obese nation.
   An enormous amount of money spent annually on obesity can take a toll on insurance companies and people. Many do not understand that obesity costs the government a large sum of money. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states, “Obesity and obesity-related health conditions cost an estimated 10% of annual medical spending in the US, totaling $147 billion in 2008” (“Is Obesity”). The large amount of money spent on obesity takes away from other medical fields in dire need for a cure as well as preventative strategies. Moreover, many overweight individuals do not realize the direct effect obesity creates in their own pockets. Dr. Thomas R. Frieden, director of the CDC acknowledges, “ Obese people spend 1,500 more each year on health-care – about 41% more than an average-weight person” (qtd. in Reinberg). In times of economic crisis, this could cause a significant, unnecessary burden. For many, exercise and a nutritious diet could cure them adding years to their life and ultimately money in their wallets. However, health benefits and income still do not always initiate change. Actions in place help create a new plan in hopes of stifling obesity.
   Serious health risks arise when a person struggles with obesity. Studies illustrate not one but a combination of medical conditions lead to the disease. A recent article, by The Washington Post, suggests, “Over 44 million Americans are now considered obese, which increase in cases of serious and costly diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and kidney failure” (Longley). Such ailments not only harm the individual but impact other family members as well. In many cases, these conditions prove extremely dangerous and potentially life threatening. Premature deaths from obesity display the urgency for change. Furthermore, obesity accounts for far too many deaths annually considering that a cure exists. Ranked as the nation’s number two preventable killer, “300,000 premature deaths are associated with obesity annually” (“Deaths from Obesity”). Thousands of obesity related deaths illustrate the devastating outcome if change does not occur. Nonetheless, the numbers have skyrocketed, with many unable to change due to their lack of understanding of what caused their current condition.
   Both emotional and physical traits play a role in the reasons one becomes obese. Escaping obesity in a family of overweight people seems insurmountable. A scientist from the UK contends, “Some people may have a higher risk of obesity because they are genetically predisposed to overeat or lead a sedentary lifestyle” (“Some People”). Due to the link between genetics and obesity, predisposed individuals should seek professional guidance to ensure they do not follow the same path. On the other hand, obese individuals possibly reached their weight due to physiological issues resulting in poor lifestyle choices. Dr. Juan Carlos Laguna, from the University of Barcelona, notes, “A poorly balanced diet and the lack of physical exercise are key factors in the increase of obesity and other metabolic diseases in modern societies” (qtd. in Gulati). Failure to eat properly and not workout may stem from a lack of motivation. Bad habits often result from deeper problems causing a dependence on something, in this case food. Breaking out of a lazy, lackadaisical routine seems challenging, yet the end result proves rewarding. Jumpstarting a new way of living takes effort and time, but obese individuals have the ability to beat genetics and personal setbacks to conquer the disease.
   Apart from adults, overweight children face immense troubles of their own. Childhood obesity has tripled in the past thirty years, opening a dangerous window for future problems (“Healthy Youth”). The Centers for Disease Control declares, “Approximately 80% of children who were overweight at ages 10–15 years were obese adults at age 25 years” (“Childhood Overweight”). Apart from suffering from obesity as a child, the likelihood of carrying it into adulthood is great. In order to prevent the kids from the disease later in life, children need to learn the importance nutrition, exercise, and overall health choices at a young age. In addition, obesity harms multiple areas in a child’s life. The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention certifies, “Children and adolescents who are obese are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem” (“Healthy Youth”). To face these types of difficulties does not enable the child to live his or her younger years carefree. In fact, it sets the child up for potential physical and mental anguish causing further psychological troubles. Mental struggles commonly occur when obese children do not fit in or get bullied due to their weight. No kid should have to endure the harmful effects relating to obesity. Therefore, parents ought to ensure that their children stay healthy through exercise and the food they prepare. By doing so, they may boost their children’s self-esteem, making childhood more enjoyable and safe.
   Reacting to the growing rate of obesity, the American government has stepped in to put a stop to the crisis and inform the public. In various communities throughout the United States, city officials take matters into their own hands. With help from a mayor in Massachusetts, “the blue-collar city of Somerville lowered the rate of obesity in its elementary schools by promoting exercise in schools, smaller portions in restaurants, health counseling, and biking and walking to school” (Ambinder). Taking an initiative to promote change not only benefits the obese but the community as a whole. As seen in this elementary school, becoming aware of the food and lifestyle decisions and acting on these healthy principles benefit many people. Likewise, first lady Michelle Obama’s new plan, “Let’s Move,” focuses on a diverse plan geared towards supporting and encouraging kids to make healthy choices. Obama’s plan, $10 billion over 10 years for the Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act points out, “Some of the money [for the plan] would be used to provide free and reduced-priced school meals for a million more children a year and to help schools serve more nutritious foods” (Hall and Hellmich). A plan such as this would put nutritious foods back into the school system making it healthy and affordable for children. Better food choices lower the chance for children to become obese. Political leaders stepping up shows the nation the bad habits need to change. Although the process to a healthier America may take time, with the help of political leaders the future looks brighter.
   Health risks and monetary factors prompt change, yet obesity continues to rise. The help of the United States government pushes the urgency of the issue by encouraging daily exercise and nutrition. Adapting lifestyle choices similar to that of what the government promotes is key. The first step to change requires people to evaluate the role obesity plays in their life. People must help others suffering from obesity. No one should have to die from a disease that has a cure.

Works Cited

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