If the situation looks grim - it is. These costs address neither the personal costs nor the quality of life issue. The question is basically whether to simply treat obesity-related illnesses or try to prevent obesity and its consequences. At a recent meeting of the American Obesity Association, Dr. William Dietz, director of the Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, referred to obesity as an epidemic. He said that while past federal programs made great contributions to health, today's congressional and financial support for obesity, the most pressing nutritional concern, has been minimal, despite a surge in willingness among agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services to address the nation's obesity problem.
Many factors contribute to the development of obesity.
In order to reverse the condition, multiple changes must be made. Some involve intense lifestyle change for the individual, which require readiness for change and dedication to maintaining those changes. Some factors affecting obesity can be improved by changing policy and the environment. School and work environments can offer and market healthful foods or fall into the trap of promoting items that are high in fat, sugar and calories. Policy can establish criteria for healthy foods for shared events such as birthday parties, instead of accepting the traditional cakes and pastries.