The Original Pandemic

For the fast 6 months we have been in the middle of a global pandemic (COVID-19). But have you ever thought about the underlying pandemic that has been happening for YEARS?  
 
I am talking about OBESITY. I am not saying that COVID is not a big deal, because it 100% is. What I am saying is that the level of attention we pay to this virus we should spend equal amounts on obesity.  
 

More and more people every year are becoming obese. Think back to your childhood, did you know of any obese kids? Chances are probably not... Diets are changing, levels of physical activity are decreasing and screen time in increasing.  

 The annual direct healthcare costs of obesity in Canada is estimated to be between $5 billion and $7 billion, and projected to rise to $9 billion by 2021 (NEXT YEAR) (2019)! Something needs to be done and fast!  

Historically, Canada’s obese population accounted for 9.7% in 1970-972 and 14.9% in 1998 (2018). These measures have increased significantly over the past 20 years and are only continuing to increase, unless we do something now! In 2011, the rate was reported to be 25.3% of Canadians were obese (2018). That means 1 in 4 people!  

Being obese puts you at higher risk for developing significant medical problems such as the following (Khaodhiar, Mccowen, & Blackburn, 1999):  

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus  
• Hypertension  
• Dyslipidemia  
• Cardiovascular disease  
• Stroke 
• Sleep apnea 
• Gall bladder disease 
• Hyperuricemia and gout 
• Osteoarthritis 
• Cancer: colorectal, prostate, endometrial, breast and gall bladder 

As cheesy as it sounds, you really do only have one bod. You need to take care of it. There are so many resources out there to help you! A quick google search for a local dietician, kinesiology or orther health care professionals can help you!  
 
Take action now, don’t be another statistic.  

Obesity trends in Canada. (2018). Retrieved July 28, 2020, from http://evidencenetwork.ca/obesity-trends-in-canada/ 

Obesity in Canada. (2019, December 03). Retrieved July 28, 2020, from https://obesitycanada.ca/obesity-in-canada/ 

Khaodhiar, L., Mccowen, K. C., & Blackburn, G. L. (1999). Obesity and its comorbid conditions. Clinical Cornerstone, 2(3), 17-31. doi:10.1016/s1098-3597(99)90002-9