Australia Food Prices Expected To Increase 216030

Questions 30marks1 Australia Food Price Are Expected To Increase T

Questions (30 Marks) 1. Australia food price are expected to increase this year. It is in this context answer the following questions: (a) Explain why the law of demand applies to food just as it does to all other goods and services. Discuss the price elasticty of demand for food. [4 marks] (b) Explain the drivers of rising food prices in Australia. Use the concept of elasticity to explain the changes in equilibrium price and quantity [6 marks] Word limit: 600 words 2. Prices of houses in Darwin have been rising in 2020. It is in this context, answer the following questions: (a) What are the major drivers of rising house prices in Darwin. [5 marks] (b) Using an appropriate diagram, explain your answer in part (a) above. [2 marks] (c) How will the widespread availabilty of vaccines impact the housing market in future. [3 marks] Word limit: 600 words 3. Darwin gets plenty of sunshine throughout the year yet the power bills remain high in the Territory. (a) Describe the costs and benefits of intalling solar panels in Darwin. Describe the externality that arises from the use of solar panels in Darwin. What is the best way to avoid or regulate externalities? Discuss. [5 marks] (b) Draw a graph to illustrate how solar panels have an impact on social welfare. Use the concepts of allocative and social efficiency [5 marks] Word limit: 800 words CAUSE AND RISK FACTORS OF CHILHOOD OBESITY CAUSE AND RISK FACTORS OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY Cause and Risk Factors of Childhood Obesity Lesly M. Ponce Gonzales Mountain View College ENGL 1302 - TR -11:00 Abstract Childhood obesity is a global public health concern and its increasing over the years and it is defined as an increase in body fat and this is related to an abnormal weight gain for their age and height. The obese child is more predisposed to being an obese adult and tends to increase his probability of early mortality. Causes or risk factors are closely related to genetic inheritance, lifestyle, and environmental factors, such as school diet, socioeconomic problems, and technology. It can also cause diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep disorders, among others. The causes and risk factors of childhood obesity because it helps to understand the increasing growth of obese children and adults in the world. Knowing the causes or risk factors allows specialists to find or propose solutions for its prevention. Cause and Risk Factors of Childhood Obesity Did you know that overweight and obesity in children and adolescents is one of the faster-growing epidemics in the world, that it is not only related to excessive consumption of calories? Although childhood obesity is caused by eating more energy than it is burning, and it is associated with a dietary factor and sedentary lifestyle, exists others less known causes associated with genetic, psychological, family, sociocultural, socioeconomic and environmental factors that develop and increase the risk of the childhood obesity. As a global health concern, World Health Organization (WHO), classifies if a child is overweight or obese using body mass index (BMI) “systematic reviews have shown that the BMI (…) provides the best simple means of defining obesity in children and adolescents†(Really). BMI is a simple indicator of the relationship between weight and height that it is used to identify obesity in children and adults. It is calculating by dividing children’s weight in kilos by the square of their height in meters BMI = (kg) / Height² (m²). For instance, the WHO uses the BMI-for-age chart for boys for screening for overweight or obesity in the child. As it has shown in figure 1 and 2 respectively, the line labeled 0 on the growth chart is the median or the average. A child whose BMI-for-age is above line 3 is obese, above 2 is overweight and above 1shows the possible risk of overweight. Obesity is interpreted “as an excess of body fat†(Sahoo) because it is understood that the excess of weight is due to the growth of fat cells or the born of the new ones. According to the researchers the prevalence of pediatric obesity in the world has increased at an alarmed rate s from “2% to 6.7% in 2010†(Al-Agha), turning it as the most serious public health challenge of this time. Fig. 1. Child Growth Standards BMI-for-age BOYS 2 to 5 years old Fig. 2. Child Growth Standards BMI-for-age Boys 5-19 years old This prevalent disease has many causes and results "from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure" (Sahoo). This extra energy or calories that a child consumes is due to external factors that have to do with the lifestyle. Accordant to specialists, dietary factors that are linked with childhood obesity are junk food and fast food because they are high in caloric; as is the case of sugary beverages. Studies demonstrate that "children and adolescents associate junk food with pleasure (...and...) healthy food is considered odd" (Sahoo). It is the reason why children choose this kind of food in a big size over healthy food. The Early Childhood Longitudinal Study , Kindergarten Class (ECLS-K) data answered about the frequency of eating a meal from a fast-food restaurant and drinking soda pop were more than 4 times per week (Min). In order to avoid this causality, children need to focus on eating healthy food, size of portion conferring with their age, and take pleasure eating with the family at home because it is an evidence “ that families who eat together consume more healthy foods†(Sahoo). In this way, children could avoid the factor of poor diet and high caloric. One of the factors that are producing the greatest impact on the prevalence of childhood obesity is linked to the sedentary lifestyle. Physical activity is reduced by screen time, online class activities, watching Tv, or video games between others. Researchers found " the increased amount of time spent in sedentary behaviors has decreased the amount of time spent in physical activity†(Sahoo), and the only way children can expenditure calories is with movement. The screen time used in children and adolescents according to the ECLS-K study is more than 3 hours as a daily recreational activity. The specialists say that when a child turned obese it is more difficult in order to do exercises “obese bodies need much more energy to maintain (and to move around) than non-obese bodies†(Reilly). In other words, a child obese could be an adult obese which, in turn, turning the health and well-being at greater risk. Related to the reduction of physical activity, a study about various causative factors associated with childhood obesity in Saudi Arabia found it that 68% of children led a sedentary lifestyle, between a 34.4 % of the children reported to rarely engage in physical activity, and another 34.5 reported an occasional, between 1 and 2 times/week (Figure 3). Fig. 3. Rate of physical activity among obese children Al-Algha, et al.: Causes and complications of childhood obesity Although it is not the cause of the dramatic increase of childhood obesity, “genetics is one of the biggest factors examined as a causa†(Sahoo). This factor plays a role in developing obesity only if it is related to external factors like environment and behavioral factor as the diet and sedentary lifestyle. However, there is evidence that changes in the economic sector, urbanization, and technological advancement have influenced eating habits and sedentary lifestyles increasing childhood obesity over the years " from 4.2% in 1990 to 6.7 % in 2010 and is expected to rise to 9.1% in 2020" (Akowuah), becoming in an issue of global public health. The urbanization has led to a series of changes in relation to the content of the diet, the time when families eat, and sedentary lifestyles have also increased. Homemade dishes full of fruits and vegetables have been replaced by fast-food foods, processed due to the high hours that families must work. The short time at night families has to prepare dinner makes them choose to buy semi cook food or fast food and eating late at night. Moreover, urbanization led to a decrease in outdoor activities, with children spending more time indoors playing video games, using electronic media, watching television, and engaging in other indoor activities. This trend is especially prominent in urban areas (Akowuah), reducing physical activity levels among children. The global rise of childhood obesity is evident across both developed and developing nations. For instance, Ghana has experienced an alarming increase from 0.7% to 47.06% in childhood obesity prevalence between 2012 and 2019, driven by urbanization, socioeconomic factors, and changing lifestyles (Kwaku). Poverty also plays a significant role; children from low socioeconomic backgrounds are three times more likely to be obese than their wealthier peers, due to limited access to healthy foods and safe outdoor spaces (Fisher Institute). Environmental factors such as insecurity and neighborhood safety further restrict physical activity; parents often drive children to school rather than allowing them to walk or bike, thereby decreasing opportunities for exercise (Sahoo). Psychological factors, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, body dissatisfaction, and eating disorders, have also been linked to childhood obesity; these mental health issues may both contribute to and result from obesity, creating a complex interaction that exacerbates health risks (Sahoo). Obesity in childhood carries significant health risks, including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and menstrual irregularities (Sahoo). Moreover, obese children often experience social discrimination, bullying, and poor academic performance, impacting overall well-being and development (Al-Agha). Addressing childhood obesity requires understanding these multifaceted causes — from lifestyle to socioeconomic and psychological factors — and implementing comprehensive interventions. Reducing the prevalence involves promoting healthy diets, increasing physical activity, improving socioeconomic conditions, and providing mental health support, tailored to the needs of children and communities globally. In conclusion, while sedentary lifestyles and poor diets are primary drivers, environmental, socioeconomic, and psychological factors significantly influence childhood obesity rates and must be targeted for effective prevention strategies.

Paper For Above instruction

Childhood obesity has become a critical global health issue, driven by a complex interplay of biological, behavioral, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. The increasing prevalence of obesity among children not only poses immediate health concerns but also significantly elevates the risk of chronic diseases in adulthood, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Biological and Genetic Factors

Genetics play a significant role in predisposition to obesity; children inheriting certain genetic traits are more susceptible to weight gain. However, genetics alone cannot explain the rising trends in childhood obesity. The interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental influences, such as diet and physical activity levels, determines the actual risk. For example, children with a genetic inclination toward obesity may only develop significant weight gain if exposed to high-calorie diets and sedentary lifestyles.

Dietary and Lifestyle Factors

A major contributor to childhood obesity is poor dietary habits, particularly the excessive consumption of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods like fast food, sugary beverages, and processed snacks (Sahoo et al., 2015). These foods are usually high in calories, fats, and sugars, which promote weight gain when consumed regularly. Moreover, the changing dietary landscape has shifted away from traditional home-cooked meals rich in vegetables and fruits toward convenience foods, especially in urban areas where busy schedules limit healthier eating. Studies have shown that children consuming fast food and sugary drinks more than four times a week are at a higher risk of becoming obese (Min et al., 2018).

Sedentary behaviors also substantially contribute to obesity. Increased screen time—from watching television to playing video games and using electronic devices—reduces physical activity levels (Reilly, 2007). Children spending more than three hours daily engaged in sedentary activities tend to have higher BMI scores, with reduced calorie expenditure impairing weight regulation. Sedentary lifestyles are often linked to urbanization and technological advances, which favor indoor entertainment over outdoor physical activity, thereby exacerbating obesity risk.

Environmental and Socioeconomic Factors

Environmental influences cannot be overlooked in childhood obesity. Urbanization has altered living environments by decreasing safe outdoor spaces and increasing reliance on transportation, limiting opportunities for physical activity (Akowuah & Kobia-Acquah, 2020). Additionally, socioeconomic status significantly impacts dietary choices and physical activity options. Children from low-income families are more prone to obesity due to limited access to healthy foods and safe recreational facilities (Fisher et al., 2020). Poverty-related stress and insecurity further restrict outdoor play and exercise, contributing to weight gain.

Psychological and Behavioral Factors

Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are both causes and consequences of childhood obesity. Low self-esteem and body dissatisfaction can lead to emotional eating and avoidance of physical activity, creating a vicious cycle (Sahoo et al., 2015). Psychological factors are particularly pronounced during adolescence, which can compound social discrimination and bullying, intensifying mental health challenges and further promoting unhealthy behaviors.

Digital Media and Technological Influences

The proliferation of digital technologies has fostered increased sedentary behavior among youth. Extensive use of computers, smartphones, and gaming consoles diminishes time spent in active pursuits. The convenience of readily available entertainment options, combined with reduced outdoor activities, accelerates weight gain. Consequently, targeted interventions promoting balanced screen time and active lifestyles are crucial.

Public Health Implications and Strategies for Prevention

Addressing childhood obesity requires a multi-faceted approach that tackles the diverse causes identified. Interventions should include promoting healthy eating habits through nutrition education, increasing access to affordable nutritious foods, and implementing policies that regulate marketing of unhealthy foods to children. Schools can serve as pivotal platforms for instilling physical activity routines and healthy lifestyle knowledge.

Community initiatives must focus on improving the built environment by creating safe parks and recreational spaces that encourage outdoor play. Socioeconomic policies to reduce poverty and improve access to healthcare and nutrition are also essential. Additionally, psychological support services should be integrated into obesity prevention programs to address mental health issues and emotional well-being.

Conclusion

Childhood obesity is a multi-dimensional problem rooted in genetic predisposition, unhealthy dietary patterns, sedentary lifestyles, environmental factors, and socioeconomic disparities. Effective prevention requires comprehensive strategies that encompass education, environmental modifications, policy regulation, and mental health support. By addressing these interconnected factors holistically, societies can better combat the rising tide of childhood obesity and promote healthier futures for children worldwide.

References

• Akowuah, P. K., & Kobia-Acquah, E. (2020). Childhood Obesity and Overweight in Ghana: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Nutrition & Metabolism, 2020.
• Fisher, J. O., Kral, T. V., & Davison, K. (2020). Socioeconomic and Environmental Influences on Childhood Obesity. Journal of Public Health, 110(3), 183-190.
• Reilly, J. J. (2007). Childhood Obesity: An Overview. Children & Society, 21(5), 390-396.
• Sahoo, K., Sahoo, B., Choudhury, A. K., Sufi, N. Y., Kumar, R., & Bhadoria, A. S. (2015). Childhood Obesity: Causes and Consequences. Journal of Family Medicine & Primary Care, 4(2), 187–192.
• Min, J., Xue, H., & Wang, Y. (2018). Association between household poverty dynamics and childhood overweight risk and health behaviors in the United States: a 8-year nationally representative longitudinal study of 16,800 children. Pediatric Obesity, 13(10), 590–597.
• Al-Agha, A., Mabkhoot, Y., Bahwirith, A., Mohammed, A., Ragbi, R., Allhabi, E., Dumyati, B., & Milyani, A. (2020). Various causative factors and associated complications of childhood obesity in Jeddah, Western Region, Saudi Arabia. Annals of African Medicine, 19(1), 15–19.
• World Health Organization. (n.d.). BMI-for-age charts and growth standards. Retrieved from WHO database.
• Kwaku, S., Agyemang, C., et al. (2019). Trends in childhood obesity in Ghana: A review. Ghana Medical Journal, 53(2), 70–76.
• Fisher, R. A., & Berenson, G. S. (2019). Childhood poverty and obesity: A public health issue. Pediatric Clinics, 66(1), 93-107.
• Reilly, J. J., & Kelly, J. (2011). Long-term impact of overweight and obesity in childhood and adolescence on morbidity and premature mortality in adulthood: Systematic review. International Journal of Obesity, 35(7), 891–898.