Obesity: Overview of an epidemic

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the United States, with 31% of adults and at least 15% of children obese. Obesity affects every segment of the US population. Obesity increases the risk of many other chronic diseases and decreases overall quality of life. The epidemic of obesity arose gradually over time, apparently from a small, consistent positive energy balance. There is no indication that the prevalence of obesity is decreasing, and substantial public health efforts will be required to reverse the epidemic. Because of the complexity of obesity, it is likely to be one of the most difficult public health issues society has faced.