Obesity
By Alani Smith
What is obesity?
Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have a negative effect on health, leading to reduced life expectancy and/or increased health problems.
Why is obesity a National Health Priority Area?
- It's a condition that Australian Governments have chosen for focused attention because they contribute significantly to the burden of illness injury in the Australian community.
- When it was introduced there were 61.4% of Australian population overweight or obese
Statistics
- 2 in 3 Australian adults (63%) are overweight or obese.
- 10% more adults are overweight or obese than in 1995.
- 1 in 4 Australian children (25%) are overweight or obese.
- 15% more people living in outer regional and remote areas are overweight or obese.
Causes:
- Genetics
- Overeating
- A high diet in simple carbohydrates
- Frequency of eating
- Slow metabolism
- Medications
- Physical activity
- Psychological factors
Symptoms:
- Weight gain
- Body mass index above 30
- Health problems
- Osteoarthritis
- Breathlessness
- Increased sweating
- Back pain/joints
Prevention & Treatment:
Prevention:
- Eating healthy
- Increasing activity levels
- Monitor your weight
- Be consistent
- More exercise
- Better diet
Support agencies:
ObesityAustralian.org
Centre for community child health