Obesity as a Public Health Problem
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Obesity affects a large share of the population and is tied to many diseases; a 1985 survey found 45% of females and 27% of males were trying to lose weight.
Detail
Obesity is a significant public health problem. It affects a large proportion of the population and adversely affects health and longevity. It either is a cause of, or is correlated with, health problems such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, and hypertension; disturbances of normal body functions including ventilation and excessive wear of joints; and psychological effects such as depression, withdrawal, poor self-concept, and self-pity. Overfat individuals are subjected to negative comments by peers and might not be selected for teams, dates, and projects.
Society is tremendously preoccupied with obesity. Data from a 1985 National Health Interview Survey indicated that 45% of females and 27% of males were trying to lose weight. Weight reduction is a multibillion-dollar industry, and weight-management programs have spread rapidly. Nevertheless, obesity persists.
Related population statistics appear elsewhere in the source (page 416): one-third of American adults are overweight; 58 million Americans are obese; and each year 300,000 die from obesity-related illnesses (see American Fat Intake and Obesity Statistics).
Key facts
- Obesity correlates with diabetes, coronary heart disease, and hypertension.
- It disturbs ventilation, causes excessive joint wear, and has psychological effects (depression, withdrawal, poor self-concept, self-pity).
- 1985 National Health Interview Survey: 45% of females and 27% of males were trying to lose weight.
- Weight reduction is a multibillion-dollar industry.
Connections
- Obesity Thresholds (Body-Fat Percentage) — the body-fat definitions of obesity.
- Weight Cycling (Yo-Yo Dieting) — repeated dieting and its consequences.
- American Fat Intake and Obesity Statistics — broader U.S. fat-intake and obesity figures.
- Cardiorespiratory Conditioning Guidelines (Peterson & Bryant / ACSM) — exercise as a health intervention.
Sources
See how this applies in practice, with honest limits on what the plan changes.
Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.