Obesity A Global Epidemic - 3268 Words

Abstract Obesity is an emerging problem around the world and specifically a rising problem in adolescence. Multiple factors can cause obesity, such as poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, genetic factors, and environmental influences. Obesity in most cases is preventable and schools can help solve the obesity problem by implementing health education and showing the importance of physical education. Introduction Obesity is becoming a nationwide epidemic, and will continue to affect future generations unless significant actions are taken. Obesity is commonly defined â€Å"as an excess of body fat mass† (Zan, Hyunju, Huiping, 2011, p. 145). According to an article in Duke Forum For Law Social Change in 2013: Obesity is the epitome of a†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"In 2010, nearly 36% of American adults are obese, and 33% of children and adolescents are obese† (Hodge et al., 2013, p. 2). This is critical because â€Å"behavior patterns established during adolescence are likely to influence long-term health behavior and may have a tremendous impact on lifelong health. While healthy eating habits and lifestyle established in childhood or adolescence may decrease the risk of chronic disease, unhealthy dietary habits appear to be associated with an increased incidence of chronic disease later in life† (Casazza Ciccazzo, 2006, p. 43). It is estimated â€Å"that more than one third of children who are overweight will be overweight as adults† (Casazza Ciccazzo, 2006, p. 43). The decisions adolescents make regarding food choices and physical activity can impact them for the rest of their lives. The incidence of childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes â€Å"is increasi ngly noted in young children and may be associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases and other chronic diseases in adulthood† (Casazza Ciccazzo, 2006, p. 43). Obesity can also play a role in low self-confidence (Zan et al., 2011). Literature Review Two major factors contributing to high obesity rates are poor nutrition and lack of physical activity. â€Å"Contributing to these two causes are a myriad of factors including genetics, the built environment in which increasing numbers of Americans are living, lack of access to nutritious food choices, more eating out behavior