Analysis of an Editorial - Essay Example

The editorial here is about the Obesity syndrome, which has shaken the whole world by affecting the psychological and physiological well-being of people. When it comes to obesity rates, America is the country to be mentioned, which has gained attention from every country for its increasing number of obese people among all age groups. The main reason for obesity among Americans is due to their unhealthy eating habits and less physical activity. The country has taken various steps to curb the increase in the obesity rates of its population. However; nothing could really hit the spot when it comes to lowering the influence of fast food on the American population. According to (Journal Star)“In order for America to reverse the dangerously unhealthy trend toward obesity, it’s going to take action on multiple fronts”.

In this editorial, it is the message from the Institute of Medicine of America that, in order to bring positive effects to the reduction of obesity rate among Americans, there should be action from government on various levels. This can be educating the public about the negative aspects of fast food and unhealthy eating habits, taking strong action on fast food chains to promote natural food, and implementing policies and strategies in schools to warn children about fast food negativity. In the (Journal Star) it is stated that “Currently, 34 percent of Americans are obese. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that by 2030, 42 percent of Americans will be obese”

It is clear known fact that obesity leads to serious illnesses like diabetes and heart diseases, hence the editorial suggest that the obese people should try to control their eating and moving pattern. The editorial comments that one in five health care dollars goes in to the health care treatment of the public which increases their total health care cost. There is also concern among other countries , whether America will get a title of a “Nanny state ” wherein every individual will be monitored by health care professional in order to get up to a title of an “healthy state”. Along with this, there was also talk among the media that the country is taking away the matter of personal responsibility from the public. However the IOM committee assured that “eat less and move more” will always be the slogan of their organization

As per (Journal Star)“There’s already proof that some of the recommendations work. Schools in Kearney raised eyebrows across the nation by dropping the obesity rate of grade school kids by 13 percent since 2006”.Also a positive effort from the Government has emerged as a tax on sugary sodas, subsidy on agricultural products, revision on Food stamp programs and designing of communities in such a way to promote walking and bicycling. The schools are also motivated to educate children on unhealthy eating habits and pros and cons of less physical activity. In the (Journal Star) it is stated that,“The schools integrated short periods of physical activity into the classroom day. They made school lunches healthier”. Moreover a work well program from private business leader also led to a credible amount of change in the obesity rate of their workers in 2010.To conclude, we can say that some people are more heath conscious, while others needs to be persuaded to reach a healthy physical and psychological well being.