The obesity epidemic: incidence and prevalence

Obesity is a major public health problem in the United States and in Louisiana in particular. The prevalence of both overweight and obesity has increased in the past two decades. National studies and studies conducted in Louisiana in adults and children have shown that overweight and obesity are related to conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and insulin resistance syndrome. Obesity tracks over time, with obese children and adolescents being more likely to become obese adults. Numerous intervention models to modify eating and exercise behaviors have been conducted with children in Louisiana and have shown that it is possible to reduce fat and saturated fat intakes and increase the amount of moderate to vigorous daily physical activity. More research is needed, however, in both health education programs and environmental influences if we are to be effective in making the necessary changes in eating and physical activity habits of children, adolescents, and adults to reduce the prevalence of obesity.