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Obesity Interdisciplinary Issue

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Interdisciplinary Issue - Obesity The Issue Obesity in America is hinging on become an epidemic, with 65% of all people being either overweight or obese. Explain why this question can be considered a complex question. I believe that due to its causes and consequences, obesity is a complex health problem. It is a multifaceted health issue that involves biological, behavioral, and environmental sources, as well as involvement from the health care system and food industry. Discuss why you are interested in exploring this question. Working in the medical field, I see first hand the effects of chronic obesity. Many of our deadly diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers have direct correlation to excessive weight. In addition to …show more content…

Discipline Disciplinary Perspective Education People need to be better educated from an early age regarding making healthy food choices. Healthy isn’t always cheaper however there are many ways to bridge that gap. Schools need to get away from “ala carte” lunch options and instead proved a balanced meal, including services from all food groups. Fast food restaurants are starting to offer low calorie choices however still entice you with the “super-size” value option! Environmental/Social Support Fat shaming, unfortunately, is the new social norm. We have laws to prevent prejudices against a person based on race, sexual orientation, religion, and gender however there are currently no laws to protect the obese against unfair harassment. The social mistreatment of the obese, no matter their age, gender or economic status has the opposite of the intended effect, leading to weight gain, not weight loss. Couple this with widespread depression and you end up with a disease of epidemic …show more content…

It could create programs, and make those programs accessible to all, regardless of their socio-economic status. It can create better access to evidence-based weight management programs (Weight Watchers, etc.). There should be national advertising campaigns depicting healthy eating, as well as those showing the consequences of obesity – people need to have a better idea/picture of what their future holds if they continue down their unhealthy road. Food Industry As much as we (the consumer) think we have a say in our healthy food choices, the food industry needs to better promote nutritional education at all levels – from the very young to our aging population. All academic and healthcare institutions, grocery chains, and food outlets (restaurants, etc.) need to be included in this equation. Medical Community Like our government, the medical community is uniquely positioned, and trusted by consumers, to offer nutritional advice. Not all physicians are well versed in the areas of obesity/weight management. You wouldn’t necessarily discuss weight management with the person who doles out sinus medication even though, based on your weight, may be a contributing factor to your sinus issues! The medical community needs to take a different approach regarding weight loss management, making it easier for the public to obtain more information as it relates to their

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