Fighting the Obesity Epidemic through Health Care - Career Training Directory


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Other Links of Interest: Accounting Colleges Accounting Master School Animation Software Basics Business Administration Schools Business Administrative Assistant Schools Computer Certifications Georgia Interior Design Schools Get Your Secondary Education Degree Fashion Design Schools Industrial Design Technology MBA Programs New York Interior Decorating Schools Online MBA Degrees		Fighting the Obesity Epidemic through Health Care By Jessica Groach Jessica.Groach@careertrainingdirectory.com Career Training Directory Columnist Obesity now rivals smoking as the leading cause of preventable death in the US, with more than 60% of Americans being overweight or obese, according to the American Family Physician Journal. The Risks of Obesity Obesity greatly increases a person's chances of contracting diseases like diabetes, cancer or heart disease. It also leads to various joint and back problems, respiratory problems, increased difficulty medical examinations, adolescent development problems, and of course, negative psychological effects of obesity, such as depression and even eating disorders like anorexia. Health Care Industry Fighting for the Obese The need for the health care industry to adapt to this epidemic is urgent. Health care education efforts around the country encourage professionals to deal more sensitively with patients, in an attempt to stem the rising tide of health problems. Studies by the American Academy of Family Physicians say that obese patients are less likely to see doctors for preventive care, like pelvic exams, mammograms, or physicals. Additionally, certain instruments may now be insufficient for treating obese patients; syringes may not be long enough, tables may not be big enough, and scales may not go high enough. Getting Help to Patients through Health Care Training Training programs around the country are giving health care professionals the education they need to reach these patients, both physically and emotionally. It is thought that sensitivity training may go a long way toward encouraging obese patients to keep from gaining weight, or to perhaps lose weight. According to the AFP journal, "Encouraging patients to lead as full and active a life as possible, regardless of their body weight or success at weight control, may help patients make positive changes." Pursuing a health care education can be a rewarding way to aid this growing problem. Sources: "Medical Care for Obese Patients: Advice for Health Care Professionals" by the National Task Force on the Prevention and Treatment of Obesity; "American Family Physician" journal, Vol. 65, No. 1; Jan. 1, 2002 About the Author Jessica Groach is a freelance writer, and writing instructor at the University of Nevada, Reno. Her background includes seven years in media, advertising and public relations. Her work has appeared in various lifestyle and business publications, including a Warner Business Book. Posted on:January 25, 2006 Back to Top
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