Obesity Epidemic
Watch this video below and respond to the improvements (or lack of improvements) you’ve noted to our nation’s Obesity Epidemic over the past 10 years. Use evidence to support your position.
https://www.cdc.gov/cdctv/diseaseandconditions/lifestyle/obesity-epidemic.html
Discussion Questions: Assessment is based on the following three criteria 1) Substance of the posting or other media method 2) Regularity and consistency of the posting and 3) The degree to which postings expand the level of dialogue and analysis.
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The video highlights the significant increase in obesity rates over the past several decades, with the number of adults classified as obese rising from 13% in the 1960s to 42% in 2017-2018. The video also emphasizes the significant health consequences of obesity, including an increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Over the past 10 years, there have been some improvements in addressing the obesity epidemic, but it still remains a significant public health concern. One improvement that has been noted is the increase in awareness and education about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity. This has led to more widespread availability of healthy food options and more opportunities for physical activity, such as the development of bike-sharing programs and the creation of more walking and biking trails.
Additionally, some states and cities have implemented policies aimed at reducing the prevalence of obesity, such as menu labeling laws and taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages. These policies have the potential to promote healthier food choices and reduce the consumption of sugary drinks.
However, despite these efforts, the obesity epidemic continues to be a major public health concern. According to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), the prevalence of obesity among adults in the United States has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with the percentage of adults classified as obese remaining around 42%. Additionally, the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents has also remained relatively stable, with about 18% of children and adolescents classified as obese.
While there have been some improvements in addressing the obesity epidemic over the past 10 years, it remains a significant public health concern. Despite increased awareness and education about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity, as well as the implementation of policies aimed at reducing the prevalence of obesity, the obesity rate has remained relatively stable. More efforts are needed to improve access to healthy food options, promote physical activity, and reduce the consumption of sugary drinks.
