Americans today are fighting an obesity epidemic. According to a study published by Genomics & Genetics Weekly, the number of severely obese Americans has increased by 70 percent in a 10-year span (2012). The study also claimed that over 15 million Americans have a body mass index of greater than 40 percent (Genomics & Genetics Weekly, 2012). To put that number into perspective, people with a BMI (body mass index) of 25 to 29 are considered to be overweight while people with a BMI of 30-35 are considered to be obese. Some may ask what has led to this significant increase in obesity? The answer to that question might not be as obvious as it seems, but many people are beginning to put the blame on our healthcare providers. It is the responsibility …show more content…
Obesity is a precursor to many diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, heart attack, cancer and stroke, which are the primary causes of disability and death in the country. It is imperative that we take a stand to decrease the instance of obesity. The best way to lessen the prominence is to educate people from a young age about good eating habits and the importance of exercise in our daily lives. Prevention, not treatment of illness and disease should be the number one goal. According to the research, Americans are more likely to listen and act on education surrounding their health when it comes from a healthcare provider who is not overweight. Therefore, it is important for healthcare agencies to employ healthcare providers who are within the normal BMI range in order for people to take their treatment plans that may include changing their eating habits and weigh loss seriously. In conclusion, it is important for healthcare companies to only hire normal weight healthcare providers. It will increase patient compliance thereby helping to decrease the instance of obesity leading to a decrease in reoccurring illness ultimately resulting in higher rates of insurance reimbursement all while lowering premiums for employees benefits including their own healthcare