subject: The Problem Of Addiction And Obesity [print this page] The number of people who have been diagnosed with obesity has increased in the past few years. Many children as early as two years old have been diagnosed with this problem. According to statistics, 12.5 million of children and adolescents in the US ages 2-19 years old are obese. This data has doubled when compared in the 1980's. The problem with obesity doesn't only dwell on issues of weight only but to other possible health issues associated with it. Sleep apnea among children, heart problems and diabetes are common diseases that are linked to obesity. Correct health practices and food intake is essential to healthy living and therefore prevent obesity.
Defining obesity
Obesity is a medical problem where the body accumulates excess fat to the point that it's detrimental to the whole health of an individual. Diseases which are linked to obesity include diabetes type 2, heart diseases, obstructive sleep apnea, and cancers. Obesity is a precursor to other severe health conditions. There are many causes why an individual becomes obese. One is genetic predisposition. Some people have genes that accumulate fats more quickly than others. Second is inactive lifestyle. People who do not exercise but love to eat more usually end up becoming obese. Frequent exercise is essential to keeping a healthy lifestyle. It does not matter how long a person exercises in a given day but the consistency of doing it over a regular time period is effective.
People who have problems with obesity may be socially conscious and often have low self esteem especially obese women. Seeking medical help is a choice for many of these women. Some physicians prescribe medication to help patients fight obesity. Medications that lessen cravings for food are usually prescribed. There is caution however in the use of medications. Obesity medications have high potential for addiction and prolonged use is dangerous. Tendency for addiction is higher when social pressure is also high. When this occurs, the problem is no longer centered on one but two issues. There are drug rehabilitation programs that cater to patients who have problems with addiction including those who suffer from prescription medication addiction.
Searching for medical help for obesity is often a good option. Many doctors and dieticians recommend exercise and healthy food intake over medicine. When medication is indeed needed, extreme caution should be done. Depression is sometimes linked to weight problems and can contribute to greater chances of addiction. When there are overlapping concerns associated with obesity like other mood conditions coupled with addiction, therapy can be obtained through drug treatment. Co-occurring disorders are catered by treatment centers targeting both the problem of addiction and other mental disorders.
