Obesity in America

BY: Lora Hartman-Devine, RN

Obesity is a disease that affects millions of Americans and often is chronic in nature. Obesity can be caused by genetics, emotions, age, and medications. Obesity is commonly defined within the medical community as men with more that 25% fat and women with more than 30% are considered obese. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of greater than 25. Incorporation of using the BMI into nursing health assessments can help better treat our patients.
Many health risks are associated with the person that is overweight. Diabetes, coronary artery disease, hypertension and depression are a few of the prevalent diseases that occur due to obesity. The stress of trying to “fit in” within a society that equates beauty with thinness can be daunting to a person that is overweight leading to emotional and psychological problems in addition to the physical ailments.
Health care interventions should occur for those that are obese. Nurses, in conjunction with other healthcare professionals can work with patients in developing goals to reach a healthy weight. Nursing interventions can be customized to meet the needs of the patient through diet, exercise and counseling. Exploration of alternative means can be utilized to work towards the established goals as well. The nurse that is able to work with the patient towards developing a healthier eating lifestyle will help the patient avoid further medical problems. Nutritional counseling as well as simple exercises can be incorporated into care plans. Education and prevention are both key factors in dealing with obesity.
Education within communities is vital to help decrease the rate at which obesity is occurring. Communities that alliance with churches, schools and health organizations often offer education and prevention methods to overcome obesity and overeating. Referrals to these groups or agencies to clients that are overweight can greatly impact their attitude toward weight loss and influence the process. Nurses that are able to work together with community resources, and patient preference will help to reduce the number of Americans affected by this chronic disease.

References
1 .http://www.webmd.com/diet/understanding-obesity-2 2. 2.
2.http://www.emedicinehealth.com/obesity/page4_em.htm
3. Brown, I., Stride, C., Psarou, A., Brewins, L., & Thompson, J. (2007). Management of obesity in primary care: nurses' practices, beliefs and attitudes. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 59(4), 329-341.

NOTE: This blog post reflects the work of Lora Hartman-Devine, RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.