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The Influence Of Obesity In America

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Within the last decade, the rate of obesity has been increasing. In 2012, at least one-third of U.S. adults were obese.1 It is expected by 2018 that the number of obese adults increases to half of U.S. adults.2 The rates for children and adolescents are increasing as well. In 2012, about seventeen percent of children and adolescents were obese.2 However, the number of obese individuals vary throughout the U.S. The South and Midwest have a higher prevalence of obesity while the West and Northeast have lower rates.3 America, on the other hand, is not the only country with increasing rates. Other European countries such as Europe, Ireland, and Sweden are on this trend.4 The increasing prevalence of obesity in the U.S. is due to numerous …show more content…

Since technology is becoming more advanced, children are spending more time about 25 percent of their day playing on devices rather than playing outside.5 In addition, the structure of communities is causing people to become more sedentary. Residences are built far enough from stores, schools, restaurants, etc. to require transportation. Also, certain areas do not have safe routes to walk or safe areas for kids to play.2 Next, dietary habits can lead to obesity. More calories are being consumed and fewer calories burned which is from the sedentary lifestyle and increased portion size. Since fast food and unhealthy foods are inexpensive, families with low incomes can afford these types of foods since fresh fruits and vegetables are pricier. Excess calories also come from consuming sugary drinks.2 Lastly, genetics can have an impact on children’s BMI. In one study, adopted kids were analyzed to see whether adopted parents influence the children’s BMI. It was concluded that the adopted parents do impact the child’s BMI during childhood, however, the adopted parents’ influence is not as impactful once the child reaches adolescence and young adulthood.6 If a child has one obese parent, the likelihood of the child becoming obese as an adult increase two to three folds. If both parents were obese, the risk of becoming obese as an adult

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