Obesity Epidemic: Article Analysis

Obesity has been on the rise for the past thirty years and it is affecting everybody. For many people in the United States, obesity is an epidemic that plagues their lives. This widespread issue is so large, in fact, that “two-thirds of adults and nearly one-third of children struggle with overweight and obesity” problems (Overweight and Obesity Statistics). Within this, 1 in 6 children between the ages 2 and 19 are obese, 82% of non-Hispanic African-American women and 82% of Hispanic men are obese. Regardless of the reason behind the weight, obesity is a quickly growing problem that shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. Along with the extra weight comes debates, questions, and unnecessary medical spending. The biggest debate regarding this …show more content…
With that description, obesity sounds like a disease and numerous doctors and those affected would agree. In Carey Rossi’s article surrounding this very question holds multiple responses from various doctors ranging from cardiology, diabetes, family medicine, fitness, nutrition and women’s health. Tansneem Bhatia, MD’s response says, obesity has “definite medical patterns: hormone imbalances, neurotransmitter deficiencies and nutritional exhaustion that…” (Rossi) contribute to obesity. On the other hand, there are those who say it is not a disease. One of the more light-hearted responses in the same article is by David L. Katz, MD, MPH. He refers to being obese is like drowning, but instead of water, the American people are drowning in calories. At the end of his response, he tries to get the reader thinking by saying to appreciate calling obesity a disease we should "consider an effort to develop drugs to treat drowning, rather than focusing on fences, lifeguards, and swimming lessons”, (Rossi). His opinion states that diseases occur because of a malfunction and the body and “turning surplus calories into a fat reserve is not malfunction; it is normal physiology,” (Rossi). No matter what side is taken on the matter, obesity is complicated to define. No matter which way one …show more content…
By pinpointing the problem early on, schools and parents can help avert the excess weight gain. In 2012, about one-third of adolescents were overweight or obese and are even higher in African-American and Hispanic communities. To help prevent childhood obesity, First Lady Michelle Obama initiated Let’s Move! on February 9, 2010. The program provides healthier food options in schools across the nation, provides families with healthy, affordable options, and helping kids be more active. She feels "the physical and emotional health of an entire generation and the economic health and security of our nation is at stake," (“Learn the Facts). Let’s Move! is supported by parents, business leaders, educators, elected officials, military leaders, chefs, physicians, athletes, childcare providers, community and faith leaders all over the nation. The whole purpose of this project is to have children grow up with healthier lives to ensure healthy, happier futures. The accomplishments of Let’s Move! include schools providing healthier snacks and allows extra time for physical activity, more families have access to healthier foods, and many businesses have shifted to providing their customers with healthier options, as well. The program is also teamed up with 157 hospitals nationwide to help deliver healthier options throughout the facilities that include: more fruits, vegetables, whole-grains, low-calorie