Reference no: EM133510463

Question

Obesity is a widespread, harmful, and expensive chronic condition that affects both adults and children in the United States and is on the rise. The burden of obesity on American households is harming productivity, health care costs, and general well-being (CDC, 2023). Obesity is considered a complex and multifactorial condition, influenced by various genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. It can result from an energy imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended. In other words, when a person regularly consumes more calories than their body needs for daily activities and metabolism, the excess energy is stored as fat, leading to weight gain and obesity over time. Given its negative effects on mental health and quality of life, obesity is a severe issue. Obesity is linked to the top causes of death both here and abroad in the United States. Some key ways in which obesity affects public healthcare systems by increasing healthcare costs, health disparities and social inequalities, and increased demand for weight managment programs. Systems work collaboratively to address obesity such as healthcare providers, public health agencies, insurance companies, community organizations, and food and beverage industry. Healthcare providers play a vital role in identifiying and managing obesity. Assessment, support, encouragement, goal-setting, management, and therapy are just a few of the many ways nurse practitioners assist patients in losing weight (Fruh, 2017). Public health agencies focus on research and collecting data. Insurance companies play a role in assisting with coverage for treatment and prevention. Community organizations provide education, resources, and suppport for individuals and families. Stakeholders within the food and beverage industry can contribute to obesity prevention by offering healthier food options.