Tackling obesity in women means healthier society

Washington, July 22 (ANI): Women are most hit by obesity issues, and only tackling them will lead to a healthier society overall, says a new study.

"We rely on women to serve as the 'Chief Health Officer' for the family, but with more than a third being obese themselves, we're unlikely to break the cycle with children without finding ways for moms to overcome their weight problems as well," said Christine Ferguson, professor at The George Washington University and Director of the STOP Obesity Alliance.

The Task Force found four areas that impact obesity in women.

Physiological, psychological, cultural and socio-economic factors as well as puberty, pregnancy and menopause, but not limited to these.

Gender-based biases portrayed in the media that show women as 'weight conscious'.

Pervasive racial and ethnic disparities in obesity prevalence and health outcomes among minority women, particularly African-American, Hispanic and Native American women.

Expectations for women as caretakers and the role they play in influencing and shaping the health behaviours and decisions of their families, especially their children.

"This is the first step down an important path - a path that we hope will reap significant and immediate benefits in reducing the risks and consequences of obesity for women and their families," said Christine Ferguson, professor at The George Washington University and Director of the STOP Obesity Alliance. (ANI)