Introduction:
Given our shared vulnerability, good health is a fundamental human right. Health is a matter of liberty, opportunity, and equal citizenship, which is not always available equitably. To achieve health equity and live as equal members of a diverse community, we must create processes and policies to protect all citizens from the suffering that hinders living as equals.
The Obesity Epidemic:
Today, America faces a rising obesity epidemic. Obesity contributes to five of the leading causes of death in the U.S. — heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and cancers in adults, and a third of diseases in children and adolescents. More than 2 out of every 3 adults are overweight or obese.
Call to Action:
Tackling obesity requires the collective effort of families, community groups, and organizations. While pharmaceutical companies work diligently to bring effective drugs to market, the drug development process must include diverse representation in clinical trials. However, individual engagement in lifestyle changes is a crucial component in managing obesity.
Lifestyle Changes:
Effective lifestyle changes significantly contribute to managing overweight and obesity. Increasing physical activity lowers the risk of adverse health outcomes such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and cancers (like colon and breast cancers).
Community Engagement:
To mitigate the obesity epidemic, communities, groups, and individuals must collaborate to slow and eventually reverse its prevalence. Become a community leader by initiating programs to effect change — start by developing awareness groups, exercise classes, and support groups. Physical activities prevent weight gain, improve cardiovascular and muscular fitness, prevent falls, improve bone strength, and reduce symptoms of obesity.
Conclusion:
We have come nearly full circle: Unjust, unequal, racist, and often inequitable conditions are well-documented in many reports and studies, including several by the Institute of Medicine (i.e., National Academy of Science Engineering and Medicine). As it has been said, “A change is going to come.” This change is rooted in putting prevention into practice, adhering to nutritional, physical, and sleep recommendations, and following medical guidelines for screening and vaccinations.
Let’s take the first step toward a healthier community.