The Causes of the Obesity Epidemic

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Sunday, January 18th, 2009 by admin Subscribe To Our Feed

The obesity epidemic in the United States has received quite a bit of attention from the media but its impact on a global scale is far more reverberating. The causes of the global obesity epidemic on a more general level include modernization, economic growth, urbanization, and globalization.
The Far-Reaching Impact of the Fast Food Culture
The fast food culture, which was created and popularized in the US, is one of the main causes of the obesity epidemic on a global scale. More and more people are choosing convenience over nutrition and whole foods are being replaced by diets that are high in saturated fat and sugar. Work that is far less demanding physically such as sitting behind a computer is replacing the manual labor that occupied more people decades prior.
Other causes of the obesity epidemic include the use of automated transport, technology, and passive leisure. More people take trains, buses, and cars instead of ride bikes or walk. Developing countries strive to follow this modern model, which is increasing the rates of obesity worldwide.
Even in the most remote corners of the world, you will find fast food restaurants and American culture. Globalization has caused this phenomenon and even in cultures where the traditional diet is extremely healthy, such as in East Asia, obesity is becoming a growing problem especially among children.
As the income rises throughout the world, the changes outlined above are becoming more commonplace. Currently, more than 1 billion adults in the world are overweight and over 300 million of them are obese. Childhood obesity is also becoming epidemic in many parts of the world.
Education about the obesity epidemic and its treatment and prevention should be aimed at children primarily because they are our future leaders. Their habits and lifestyles will greatly affect the future of global societies.
The causes of the obesity epidemic worldwide must be alleviated in order to address this growing problem. Public health programs play a prominent role in educating children and adults about the importance of good nutrition and exercise as well as the causes of the obesity epidemic and how to address them effectively.
Do yourself a favor and learn more about the causes of the obesity epidemic worldwide and take an active role to eradicate it in your community and on a global level. Education and outreach are essential in getting rid of obesity. Think globally and act locally if you want to make a difference in combating the obesity epidemic.

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