Studies by the National Center for Health Statistics, conducted over the last two decades, show obesity is on the rise. Health risks related to obesity include diabetes type 2, hypertension (high blood pressure), stroke, dyslipidemia (elevation of triglyceride levels and depression of HDL “good” cholesterol levels), cardiovascular disease, gallbladder disease, respiratory disease, some cancers, arthritis and gout.
Not only does obesity increase an individual’s risk for numerous health conditions, it also has emotional and social consequences. A moderate weight loss of 5-10% and maintenance of that weight can improve overall health and well-being and lower the risk for health related problems due to obesity. A moderate weight loss has also been shown to improve mood, self-esteem, self-efficacy (one’s perception of their ability to change or perform specific behaviors, such as exercise) and body image.
Tens of millions of Americans are dieting at any given time. To be effective, weight loss should be a multifaceted approach. Changing eating habits, setting reasonable goals, including exercise and changing attitude are vital.
Would You Believe…
- The number of overweight people in the U.S. is currently 97 million American adults or 55% of the population (according to the National Institute of Health, June 1998).
- The number of overweight Americans increased from 25% to 33% between 1980 and 1991 and to 55% currently.
- The percentage of dietary fat American adults consume daily is 34% of their total daily intake.
- At any given time, 33-40% of adult American women are trying to lose weight.
- At any given time, 20-24% of American men are trying to lose weight.
- Nearly 80% of patients with type 2 diabetes are obese.
- Annually 300,000 deaths are attributable to poor diet and inactivity.
- Obesity related diseases approaches $100 billion dollars annually.
- Obesity more than doubles ones chance of developing high blood pressure.
- Almost half of breast cancer cases are diagnosed among obese women; and an estimated 42% of colon cancer cases are diagnosed among obese individuals.
- Americans spend an additional 33 billion dollars annually on weight reduction products and services.