There are some who think that the best way to solve the obesity crisis is to have more physical education lessons in schools. I disagree. While increased emphasis on physical education might benefit students, it would do little to reduce the health problems of the general public. However, I do think education is one key factor in solving the problem, but education for the entire population, not only school children.
Fighting obesity is, in many ways, a public relations question. How do we educate a diverse population about the dangers of being overweight? With the popularity of social media, posting messages on apps is one choice, but to reach an older population, television is the first choice.
Many people see their doctor once a year, if not more often. Sooften, so the medical profession plays a key role here. For the dangerously obese, medicine, and at times, surgery, is required. There are now new weight loss drugs on the market.
Our food industry also has a role to play. Fast food is notorious for being unhealthy. While there are often healthy choices offered, people must make that choice and avoid foods with a high fat content -content, especially trans fat. There have been efforts in some US states to ban high fathigh-fat foods and sugary drinks.
Promoting healthy eating habits for the public is a difficult problem. Certainly, emphasis on physical education in schools is part of the solution, but only a small part. It will take a concerted effort by all sectors, private and public, to reduce the obesity epidemic. And, not only exercise, but also diet and nutrition are important areas to emphasize.