The Prevalence of Obesity

The Prevalence of Obesity
Obesity is a complex medical condition that is caused by a variety of factors. It is characterized by excessive body fat that can lead to health problems. Obesity is a severe problem in the United States and other developed countries. It contributes to heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions. The prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically in recent years. According to Mattes & Foster (2014), in the United States, the prevalence of obesity among adults increased from 30.5% in 1999 - 2000 to 42.0% in 2017-2018. Among children and adolescents, the prevalence increased from 13.9% to 18.5% over the same period. Obesity is also a complex condition that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment. The first step in treating obesity is to identify the underlying causes. Robinson & Christiansen (2014) suggests that once the causes are identified, a treatment plan can be developed. Treatment plans vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Obesity is a preventable condition.
According to Robinson & Christiansen (2014), making healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent the development of obesity. These choices include eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. Many factors contribute to the increasing prevalence of obesity. As illustrated by Albrecht (2017), changes in diet such as increased consumption of energy-dense foods and beverages, larger portion sizes, increased sedentary behavior, like spending more time watching television, using computers, and playing video games, and changes in the physical environment like more opportunities to purchase and consume high-calorie foods and beverages. Genetics, lifestyle choices, and the environment are also other factors that contribute to the development of obesity.
Primary Prevention of Obesity
Primary prevention refers to prevention before the disease or condition develops. According to Robinson & Christiansen (2014), there are several ways to prevent obesity, but the most important and effective way is promoting healthy eating habits. It means eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and reducing the intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and fatty meats. It is also essential to encourage people to be more physically active. It can be done by making it easier to walk or cycle instead of drive and by providing more opportunities for people to be active in their leisure time. Addressing underlying psychological issues that may contribute to obesity is another primary prevention of obesity. According to Albrecht (2017), dissatisfaction with a person's body image is an underlying psychological issue that may contribute to obesity. It can lead to overeating as a way to cope with negative emotions or as a way to achieve the desired body type. It can also lead to avoiding physical activity, further contributing to weight gain. Another psychological issue, according to Albrecht (2017), that may be a factor in obesity is food addiction. It can lead to cravings and binge eating, leading to weight gain. If underlying psychological issues are not addressed, they can contribute to the development and maintenance of obesity.
Improving public awareness of the dangers of obesity is a sign...