Obesity – The New Epidemic

Over the past 15 years obesity rates have increased in all Americans with 60% of adults classified as overweight and 20% of children in the overweight category. Many factors contribute to the rise in obesity and probably the most important factors are increase in caloric intake and lack of adequate physical activity. Obesity is not just a cosmetic problem but serious health conditions are consequences of the increased weight. Students in the mini medical schools will learn about risk factors contributing to obesity, the health conditions associated with obesity, various methods of treatment and why it is so difficult to maintain weight loss.

Upon completion of this class, the student will have a better understanding of what causes obesity and methods to control obesity.