American Diet, Essay Example

A high number of people in poor nations across the globe are affected by nutritional deficiencies due to shortage of food items. On the contrary, most people in the affluent nations, America included develop diet disorders associated excessive dietary habits. Consequently, most of the people in these regions are victims of obesity and overweight which happen to be a critical situation that has been labeled as an epidemic by most health experts and the media. Both children and adult are victims of this epidemic. According to available statistics 2/3 of the total American population are overweight with 1/3 being obese. This trend has necessitated for elimination of certain fats from the grocery store and the fast food as a vital fitness campaign (Paul, et al. 2009).

The problem associated with obesity is only comparable to alcohol and cigarettes. However, the severity of obesity is even high based on available statistics. Majority of the American people has expressed their concern about the severity of obesity claiming that is is a very serious societal problem. In every 10 Americans, four are for the opinion that obesity is a very serious problem in comparison to 30% and 18% who claim that cigarettes and alcohol; respectively are extremely serious (Paul, et al. 2009).

The concerns are further highlighted by notable health problems which are closely associated with obesity such as cancer, cardiovascular illnesses and diabetes. High blood pressure is also linked to obesity and it is a potential cause of death. The contribution of removal of physical activities in schools as a budget cut and its replacement with “pay to play” types of sports has been a serious concern for parents whose wish is a full implementation of classes in physical education

Reference

Paul, M, et al. (2009). “Opportunities for the primary prevention of obesity during infancy”.      Advances in Pediatrics, 56: 107-133.