First Name:
Katy
Last Name:
Dodd
Major Department:
Biology
Thesis Director:
Alan Utter
Date of Thesis:
May 2012
Obesity is a severe epidemic affecting one in every ten adults worldwide (WHO 2011). Obese persons are at a greater risk for numerous chronic diseases such as hypertension, increased levels of cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, osteoarthritis, and psychological problems, yet their health problems are preventable. Most people who are considered overweight attempt short-term weight loss plans that have proven to be unsuccessful and fail to promote long-term weight reduction. Long-term diet and exercise plans coupled with behavioral modifications are effective in allowing people to lose weight by natural means, keep the weight off permanently, and experience multiple health benefits. Those conducting weight reduction and maintenance plans should provide social support and monitor the psychological status of patients throughout the course of treatment. The focus amongst health care professionals, when treating obese patients, should be natural, permanent weight reduction via methods widely accepted by the scientific and health promotion communities. Obesity prevalence rates will continue to reach epidemic levels if changes in current weight loss treatment plans are not successfully implemented. Physicians should meet frequently with patients regarding obesity treatment plans and attempt to reverse unhealthy behaviors in at-risk children before weight control issues develop.