Question

Directions:

Carefully read and respond to each question. Please complete your responses using complete sentences. Your responses will be evaluated on the basis of content accuracy, clarity, correct usage of the English language, and demonstrated evidence of critical analysis.  

6.    What do you think is the most pressing public health issue in the United States? How would you address this problem?

Answer 1

In my opinion , I think excess body weight and obesity is the most pressing public health issue in the United States.
Modern life in America has led many people to eat more unhealthy foods, eat bigger food portions, and be less active. As a result, the number of Americans who are overweight or obese (very overweight) has been rising. About 1 in 3 American adults is now obese, and another 1 in 3 is overweight.

Being overweight or obese can have far-reaching health consequences. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), excess body weight increases a person’s risk for: Heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, High blood pressure, High cholesterol levels, Stroke, Liver and gallbladder disease, Sleep apnea and respiratory problems, Arthritis, Abnormal menstrual periods and infertility in women, Certain cancers

Overweight and obese people, on average, do not live as long as people who stay at a healthy body weight throughout their lives. Not only are more adults overweight or obese, but more children are, too. Among children and teens, about 17% are now obese. This number is about 3 times higher than it was a few decades ago, although it has leveled off in recent years.

Some of the same health problems affecting obese adults can also affect obese children. These include heart disease risk factors such as high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, as well as asthma, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, muscle and joint problems, and liver disease. Obese children and teens are also at higher risk for social and psychological problems, such as discrimination and poor self-esteem. Overweight and obese children and teens are more likely to have weight problems as adults, too.

This issue can be tackled by :

• preventing weight problems early in childhood with the help of health educational programs, build programs that address obesity before birth, promote family involvement.
• promoting healthier food choices.
• building physical activity into everyday lives.
• creating incentives for better health.
• providing personalized advice and support for those who already have a weight problem.