Obesity was considered to be a problem exclusive to high income countries. Over the past few years however, obesity has risen dramatically in low and middle income countries as well especially in urban areas. What is Obesity? Obesity is generally defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulations on a person’s body which adver

Obesity was considered to be a problem exclusive to high income countries. Over the past few years however, obesity has risen dramatically in low and middle income countries as well especially in urban areas.

What is Obesity?

Obesity is generally defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulations on a person’s body which adversely affects his/her health. The generally accepted measure of obesity, the Body Mass Index (BMI), defines overweight people as those with a BMI of 25 or more and obese people as those with a BMI of 30 or more. While the BMI is a valuable tool in measuring weight proportions, it should be considered a rough guide as there are many variances in different individuals.

The Facts

The World Health Organization’s statistics estimate that 1.6 billion adults (15 years and older) were overweight and that 400 million adults were obese in 2005. By 2015, these statistics are estimated to increase significantly to 2.5 billion overweight adults and over 700 million obese adults. In Canada, over 1.5 million people are considered obese. This alarming increase is attributed to many factors; the most significant being (a) a global shift in diet resulting in an increase in consumption of high fat, high sugar foods which are low in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients and (b) a global decrease in physical activity because many job functions are now sedentary, transportation is more easily accessible and urbanization has increased significantly.

The Effects

The effects of obesity cannot be ignored. They include serious factors as health issues and detrimental psychological effects. In terms of health, obesity has resulted in an increase in health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, musculoskeletal problems and even, cancer. There have also been psychological problems that have resulted directly from obesity, such as low self-esteem. The repercussions of this problem is immense, affecting the individual as well as their home and work environments.

What can I do?

On a societal scale, it is important for us to focus on the vulnerable people within our community who are limited in their choices of the foods they eat and the environments that they live in.   The food industry is a key component in this issue. A reduction in fats, sugars, salts, processed foods and smaller portion sizes will play a huge part in limiting the rise of obesity.

On an individual level, it is important that we:

• Achieve and maintain a healthy weight
• Shift our fat intake to unsaturated fats
• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts
• Decrease our intake of sugar
• Maintain at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical
  activity.

Sources:

• Health Canada
• National Cancer Institute
• The World Health Organization (WHO)

This information is offered as information only and is designed to promote Health & Safety in the workplace and the community. It is subject to change.