How Tackling Obesity Issues Not Only Address Healthcare Related Concerns but is Also Beneficial to the Environment

Currently, the media has covered how the U.S. government is putting obesity preventative measures as a primary focus in public health. Therefore, obesity prevention programs are beginning to receive funding and support. The following are truths vs. myths on obesity prevention.

Myth: Obesity cannot be prevented because it is primarily genetic.
Truth: Over the past two decades the rate of obesity has increased to over 30% of the U.S. population in up to 14 states. Although some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to the condition, it is primarily driven through diet and lifestyle choices.

Myth: Obesity harms the individual but does not impact society as a whole. So, leave these individuals alone.
Truth: Studies have shown that obesity causes a substantial increase in various diseases which include heart disease, cancers and autoimmune conditions. When individuals suffer from these conditions, society suffer from loss of productivity (workers' absences) and government subsidized healthcare costs.

Myth: There is no correlation between environmental impact vs. obesity.
Truth: When individuals engage in obesity preventative measures, there is a positive environmental impact. Specifically, individuals are encouraged to exercise more (thereby reducing their carbon footprint from automobile use) and consume healthier foods (processed foods and meats tend to result in greater carbon footprint compared to healthy vegetable and fruit alternatives). Reduction in electronic use (reduction in television time, internet surfing and video game playing) also leads to less electric energy use in the environment.

Myth: Government interventions will not make an impact on obesity conditions.
Truth: Many recent success stories in other public health areas such as prohibiting smoking in public areas in New York City has resulted in a significant reduction in smoking shows that government regulation and intervention will make an impact.

Myth: It will take a long time to see the positive results of obesity preventative measures.
Truth: Studies have shown that a reduction in BMI (Body Mass Index) results in a reduction in major risks of various health conditions (heart disease, cancers and chronic conditions).

Myth: The government will control what I eat.
Truth: By offering healthy options in school lunch programs or requiring packaged food companies to display consumer friendly nutrition labels, the government will enable the end consumer to become more aware of his/her food choices. At the end of the day, it is always up to the individual to make the food selection or food purchase.