100 / 106
98 / Health Issues Caused by Obesity
weight hurts us. Furthermore, if the obesity epidemic continues at its cur-
rent rate, excess body weight will not only kill many of us at a relatively
young age, researchers warn that it might overburden and cripple the entire
health-care system. Denial won’t make its consequences go away. We, as a
society, must come to terms with this growing epidemic. How? By first
admitting it exists, then deciding the cost is simply too high.
Awareness of the problem is half the battle. By acknowledging that
American society is on an unhealthy path, we can begin exploring options for
changing our direction. Some of the changes will have to come from individ-
uals in the form of adopting healthy lifestyles, visiting their doctors, and
becoming committed to good health. Other changes will have to come from
the larger society, perhaps in the form of obesity-prevention programs in our
schools, public-awareness campaigns, and improvements to the health-care
system. Weight issues will certainly continue to be major challenges to
Americans for years to come, but now you are more educated about the real-
ities of America’s obesity crisis. With knowledge, you can become part of the
solution.
Text-Dependent Questions:
1. List three ways that a person’s obesity affects
other people financially.
2. Why is the diet industry so successful in
America?
3. How is life expectancy impacted by obesity?
4. What are the dangers to the health-care system if the
obesity epidemic continues?