Assignment 3: Obesity In America Is Considered 093679

Assignment 3 Obesity In Americaobesity In America Is Considered An Ep

Review the information on obesity on pages 383 to 385 in the textbook. You may also use the Internet or Strayer Library to research obesity and its causes. Write a one to two page (1-2) page essay in which you: Describe the effect that obesity (childhood and/or adult) has had on you personally or your community. Select one (1) contributing factor to childhood or adult obesity. Recommend two (2) preventative measures related to the selected factor that people can take in order to reduce their chance of becoming obese. Discuss one (1) sociological theory that relates to the selected contributing factor to obesity. Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements: Be typed, double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.

To keep this essay short and manageable, your only sources for the essay should be the article from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the sections noted in your text. For this reason, APA citations or references are not required for this assignment. Include a cover page containing the title of the assignment, the student’s name, the professor’s name, the course title, and the date. The cover page is not included in the required assignment page length. The specific course learning outcomes associated with this assignment are: Define the basic concepts used in the discipline of sociology. Explain the major theoretical paradigms of sociology. Use technology and information resources to research issues in sociology. Write clearly and concisely about sociology using proper writing mechanics.

Paper For Above instruction

Obesity in America has become a significant public health concern, with profound effects not only on individuals but also on communities across the country. The prevalence of obesity, both in childhood and adulthood, contributes to numerous physical health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2020). Personally, witnessing the rise in obesity within my community has heightened awareness of the importance of lifestyle choices and access to health resources. It has also underscored the social and economic disparities that influence health outcomes.

One prominent contributing factor to obesity is socioeconomic status (SES). Lower SES is associated with limited access to healthy foods and safe environments for physical activity, which increases the likelihood of weight gain. This factor is particularly relevant in underserved communities where food deserts and unsafe neighborhoods restrict residents’ ability to engage in healthy behaviors (Swinburn et al., 2011). To address this issue, two preventative measures can be recommended. First, increasing access to affordable, healthy foods through government subsidies or incentives can help residents make better dietary choices. Second, developing safe parks, recreational areas, and sidewalks encourages physical activity among community members, making exercise more accessible and appealing.

From a sociological perspective, the conflict theory provides insight into how social inequality contributes to obesity disparities. Conflict theory posits that social stratification and resource allocation influence health outcomes (Marx & Engels, 1848). Communities with limited resources face structural barriers that increase the risk of obesity, illustrating how economic disparities are intertwined with health issues. Addressing these inequalities requires systemic change and policy initiatives aimed at reducing socioeconomic gaps and promoting equitable access to health resources.

In conclusion, obesity continues to impact the health and well-being of individuals and communities in America. Addressing contributing factors such as socioeconomic status through targeted preventative measures and understanding the sociological structures involved is vital for reducing obesity rates and promoting healthier lifestyles.

References

• Marx, K., & Engels, F. (1848). The Communist Manifesto. Penguin Classics.
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Managing Overweight and Obesity in Adults. NIH Publication.
• Swinburn, B. A., Sacks, G., Hall, K. D., et al. (2011). The global obesity pandemic: shaped by global drivers and local environments. The Lancet, 378(9793), 804-814.