Obesity as a Global Problem

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Citation

Antipatis, Vicki J. & Gill, Tim P. (2001). Obesity as a Global Problem. In Bjorntorp, Per (Ed.), International Textbook of Obesity (pp. 1–22). Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Abstract

Obesity is a major public health and economic problem of global significance. Prevalence rates are increasing in all parts of the world, both in affluent Western nations and in poorer countries. This chapter briefly reviews methods of classification, a critical issue for estimating the extent of obesity in populations. It considers the serious impact of excess body weight on individuals and societies throughout the world in terms of associated health, social and economic costs. Current prevalence and trends of adult obesity rates around the world are given, including projections for 2025. Comment is made on key features and patterns of the global epidemic followed by discussion of the major factors that are driving it. After an overview of the emerging childhood obesity problem, the chapter concludes with a call for global action to tackle the epidemic.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/0470846739

Reference Type

Book Chapter

Year Published

2001

Author(s)

Antipatis, Vicki J.
Gill, Tim P.