The Obesity Epidemic Flashcards
(28 cards)
What is “globesity”?
A term describing obesity as a global epidemic affecting large percentages of populations worldwide.
Define “excess adiposity.”
A high amount of body fat in relation to lean body mass.
What are the healthcare cost implications of obesity?
Obese individuals have medical costs about 30% higher than those of normal weight (Withrow & Alter, 2011).
By how much has obesity increased globally since 1980?
It has doubled in over 70 countries (GBD 2015 Obesity Collaborators).
Name two lifestyle changes linked to the rise in obesity.
Increased mechanization and consumption of high-fat, high-sugar foods.
What societal crises have contributed to obesity?
The cost-of-living crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to McKeown (1979), what causes most modern illnesses?
Individual behaviours such as smoking, eating habits, and exercise.
How did eating habits change during the COVID-19 pandemic?
- increased emotional eating
- more snacking
- lower intake of fruit/veg (McBribe et al., 2021).
How did COVID-19 affect physical activity?
25% reported reduced physical activity; sedentary behaviour increased.
What gene is strongly associated with early-onset obesity?
The FTO gene (Dina et al., 2007).
What is meant by “gene × environment interaction” in obesity?
Genetic predispositions interact with lifestyle factors, like fried food intake, to influence obesity risk (Qi et al., 2014).
How does stress influence food choice?
Stress increases preference for high-fat “comfort” foods (Zellner et al., 2006).
What is the role of dopamine in food-related behaviour?
It creates feelings of reward and pleasure, reinforcing overeating (Singh, 2014).
Which brain systems are activated by palatable food and drugs alike?
The brain’s reward and pleasure centres (Volkow et al., 2012).
How do social norms affect eating behaviour?
People model their behaviour on what they believe is normal or acceptable in their peer group (Ball et al., 2010).
What is an obesogenic environment?
One that promotes weight gain through availability of energy-dense food, large portions, and sedentary lifestyles
Name two media-related factors contributing to obesity.
TV advertising of unhealthy food and snacking during screen time.
What are the most commonly reported barriers to healthy eating?
Lack of willpower, time constraints, and taste preferences (Pinho et al., 2018).
What were key student barriers to healthy eating?
Lack of time, poor canteen options, and cost (Hilger et al., 2017).
How does cost influence food choice?
Healthy foods are more expensive than unhealthy options, deterring consumption (Jones et al., 2014).
Name a demographic predictor of physical activity.
- Younger age
- being male
- higher education level
- access to facilities (Dishman, 1982).
What ethnic group is reported as less active in Physical activity studies?
Black ethnic groups, particularly Black women (Shea et al., 1992).
What psychological factor helps older adults maintain Physical activity?
A sense of purpose and challenge (Beck et al., 2010).
What are common barriers to Physical Activity among students?
- Time constraints
- inconvenient facility schedules
- academic commitments (Blake et al., 2017).
