America: Big Place, Big People

According to recent reports, the health of Americans is in decline. I agree. Although I've become immune to some of these reports, one particular headline made me feel shocked, frustrated, and saddened – all at the same time: "Study: Most kids' fast-food meals have too many calories". Are you surprised by this headline? I'm not. In fact, I thought this was common knowledge by now.

Even more alarming was that on the same day I read the fast-food article, I also learned that researchers are now predicting that 86% of Americans will be overweight in 2030 – and that all Americans will be overweight by the year 2048. We know that Americans are fat, but this prediction is pretty scary. The government-funded study went on to say that even if Americans never reach the 100% mark, any increase would be alarming since it's already estimated that two-thirds of the U.S. population is overweight.

There are many reasons for obesity in the United States. Some people will point to food additives like high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Others will blame lack of exercise or general laziness when it comes to physical exertion. Whatever the reasons may be, the number of people considered obese is increasing. Dr. Lan Liang of the U.S. government's Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality claims that obesity numbers like this should be "genetically and physiologically impossible." She admits, however, that if the trends of the past 30 years continue, then this is the direction we're taking.

We're Fat, Now What?

As if weight-problems aren't enough, think of the impact these extra pounds will have on the American healthcare system. Researchers tracking census data have published estimates of healthcare costs that are attributed to extra weight. They estimate that the costs will double each decade, reaching $957 billion by 2030 – but, this estimate is looked at as a "huge underestimate". Importantly, these numbers account for one of every six healthcare dollars spent in the United States.

Researchers are hoping that this study will act as a "wake-up call" for Americans. In order from reaching 86% or 100% adult obesity, it's going to take more than eating less and exercising. "It really needs to be more than an individual effort… it needs to be a societal effort", says Dr. Liang. Social changes, such as such as creating more pedestrian-friendly communities, or having more calorie-considerate choices put out by the food industry, would be a good start.

I think something needs to click soon. In 2048, I will be in my sixties -and I aim not to let myself fall into these statistics. But what about those people who didn't even know that fast-food chains offer high-calorie kids meals?! By then, maybe those people will turn to the new exercise pill.

What do you think?

• Is the United States in serious trouble when it comes to obesity?
• Should the government regulate the food industry when it comes to food additives?
• How do we get people to take action when it comes to their health?

Resources:

http://cr4.globalspec.com/blogentry/2989/Why-Are-Americans-So-Fat

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26058862/

http://cr4.globalspec.com/blogentry/6491