Almost every social issue has roots in a personal problem an individual may experience. Obesity is one such problem affecting many persons and society as a whole. According to World Health Organization, over 40% of the US population are either overweight or outright obese (Utkirzhonovna, 2022). Obesity causes numerous healthcare issues, from lowered mobility to a plethora of cardiovascular diseases, to diabetes. As such, it clearly presents a social challenge – the healthcare system has to take care of these people and help them overcome their troubles, which takes time, resources, and personnel. Diseases associated with overweightedness become a burden for the afflicted and their families as well.
The increased proportion of people who are obese has an impact on societal norms and traditions, usually to the point of exacerbating the problem. Modern meals are much larger in size than they used to be and often come with sweetened drinks and treats that further increase the calorie count (Utkirzhonovna, 2022). Destructive movements are being formed that propagate obesity as a new norm while rejecting all and any medical advice on healthy living and eating (Utkirzhonovna, 2022). The medical community has to fight an uphill battle against these and many other self-replicating social practices.
At the root of it all, however, to one degree or another, there is always a personal choice. In order for lasting change to take effect, an individual must be willing to enact it. This includes doing exercises, adhering to a healthy diet, and avoiding various triggers that may cause overeating. Without this necessary first step, all the social and medical efforts to fight obesity will be useless. Therefore, obesity is as much a personal issue as it is propagated by society.
Reference
Utkirzhonovna, S. N. (2022). Main risk factors for overweight and obesity in young people. Eurasian Medical Research Periodical, 7, 141-146.