Epidemiology of obesity
Epidemiology of Obesity
The Epidemiology of Obesity (pronunciation: /ˌepɪˌdiːmiˈɒlədʒi ɒv əʊˈbiːsɪti/) is a branch of Epidemiology that studies the patterns, causes, and effects of Obesity health and disease conditions in defined populations.
Etymology
The term "Epidemiology" is derived from the Greek words epi (upon), demos (people), and logos (study). "Obesity" comes from the Latin obesus, meaning "that has eaten itself fat".
Definition
Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excess of body fat. It is often defined using the Body Mass Index (BMI), where a BMI of 30 or above is considered obese.
Prevalence
The prevalence of obesity has been increasing worldwide, with significant variations across different regions and populations. In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight, of which over 650 million were obese, according to the World Health Organization.
Risk Factors
Several risk factors contribute to obesity, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and certain medical conditions. These include sedentary behavior, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and genetic susceptibility.
Consequences
Obesity is associated with numerous health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain types of cancer, and sleep apnea. It can also lead to reduced quality of life and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control strategies for obesity include promoting healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and supportive environments for these behaviors. Public health interventions, policy changes, and healthcare provider education are also crucial.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epidemiology of obesity
- Wikipedia's article - Epidemiology of obesity
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