Obesity has become an epidemic not only in America but worldwide. It affects people from all walks of life. Most notably, childhood obesity is recognized as an emerging threat to the health of America's children. Children who are obese have a much greater risk of not only developing chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension, but are also at risk of developing vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
While it was once thought that America was alone in battling this crisis, researchers are now finding obesity rates soaring in nations still plagued with hunger and poverty. "In India for example, obesity is consider a symbol of wealth," said Dr. Paul Stanish Medical Director of Methodist Hospitals ReStart Center.
The Methodist Hospitals in Northwest Indiana hosted its first Obesity Symposium on February 23 in Merrillville; geared towards healthcare professionals. The objective of the symposium was to promote obesity awareness and provide up-to-date information to assist in combating obesity in Indiana.
Indiana has the 9th highest level of adult obesity in the nation at 28.6 percent; therefore, Methodist Hospitals has made an extended commitment to the health of our communities and the fight against the obesity epidemic. The symposium featured leading authorities in bariatric medicine and weight loss related fields, such as Dr. Stephanie Sogg Staff Psychologist at Massachusetts General Hospital-Harvard Weight Center. She specialized in treating patients with obesity and eating disorders. Dr. Sogg discussed the role psychology plays in obesity and its treatment.
The difference between being obese and being overweight is excess body fat.
- 21 percent of the nation's population is considered obese.
- Obesity is a chronic, life-threatening disease
- Obesity shortens life expectancy
- Obesity is associated with many severe illnesses that deteriorate health or cause death
- Obesity leads to significant medical, psychological, social, physical, and economic difficulties
Dr. Stanish has observed people at restaurants eating deep fried foods, tons of butter and a lot of carbohydrates. He said there aren't a lot of restaurants in NWI offering a healthy menu. "You see a lot of overweight folks, geared towards obesity; the epidemic of obesity is reaching critical proportions. Sugars are the worst for us; high fructose corn syrup, carbohydrates, it messes with the normal metabolism of the body," said Dr. Stanish.
"Our goal in mind is to eventually have a truly comprehensive weight loss program providing non-surgical components as a viable alternative," added Dr. Stanish.
UPCOMING FREE WEIGHT LOSS SEMINARS:
March 25, April 9 & 22, May 14 & 27, from 6-8 pm at Center for Advanced Clinical Studies (CACS), Methodist Hospitals, Southlake Campus, 200 E. 89th. Drive, Merrillville. Free. Call 1-800-909-3627 to register. |
