Nz Obesity

Obesity

In the past 30 years obesity rates have doubled worldwide( 2012).   Obesity is becoming a growing problem for society.
This essay will give an over view of what obesity is and those affected by it. It will then discuss the health issues physically and mentally and the effect that it has on society.
A large range of people are affected by obesity and it leads to many health issues.   Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat is accumulated to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health. It is one of the leading preventable causes of death worldwide. It is defined by body mass index (BMI).   BMI is calculated by dividing the person’s mass weight by the square of his or her height .  

People living with obesity are faced with a number of health issues.   Excess body weight is associated with various diseases – in particular cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus type two, obstructive sleep apnea, certain types of cancer and osteoarthritis.   As a result obesity has been found to reduce life expectancy dramatically.

People living with obesity are face with mental health issues like depression and self-hate from body image. They can often feel anti-social from lack of confidence.
Because of the medical complication caused from being overweight, it is putting more people in hospital and is causing increased pressure on funds and staffing in medical clinics. There is also a need/cost for larger beds, chairs and other equipment to deal with the body mass.
Statics:
A New Zealand survey found that in 2008/20091 in 3 Adults were overweight (%37) and one in four were obese   by %27.8. 1 in 5 children aged 2 to 14 years were overweight (20.9%) and 1 in 12 were obese (8.3%) – survey 2006-2007.
Having a family member who is obese affects everyone in that family.   Simple actives such as going to the park, is almost impossible.   Getting into and out of car, air travel, public transport is also very hard to accomplish.

In a report...