Lecture 1 Flashcards

What percentage of US adults were obese in the past compared to now

Increased from 15% to ~33%.

Why is obesity considered an international disease

Its prevalence has risen globally across age and socio-economic groups.

How has obesity affected youth demographics

It is increasingly common among youth and linked to socio-economic status.

What diseases are highly related to obesity

Cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, and other serious disorders.

What is now the leading cause of death worldwide

Cardiovascular disease, closely correlated with obesity.

How is obesity impacting American youth

It is reducing projected life spans and affecting international health.

How is obesity best defined

As a disorder of excess body fat relative to lean tissue.

What is the BMI threshold for obesity

BMI > 30.

What is the BMI threshold for being overweight

BMI > 27.

Why is BMI not a perfect metric for obesity

It measures weight, not body fat, and doesn't distinguish muscle from fat.

How do obesity criteria vary

By age, sex, and ethnic group (e.g., lower BMI threshold in Japan).

What socio-economic trend is seen in obesity prevalence

Higher prevalence in lower socio-economic groups in developed countries.

How does current obesity prevalence differ from historical patterns

It is now more common among poorer populations, reversing past trends.

Which US groups show the highest obesity prevalence

Minority groups, with some exceeding 70%.

What shift is seen in teen diabetes in San Francisco

Type 2 diabetes is now more common than Type 1 among teens.

Where is obesity increasing rapidly outside the West

In Asia, South America, urban Africa, and central Europe.

Why is obesity relevant across all fields

It influences political, economic, and health discussions.

What diseases are associated with obesity

Diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, stroke, liver disease, cancers, gall bladder disease, PCOS, depression, sleep disturbances, and cognitive dysfunction.

What caused widespread rickets in 1900

Vitamin D deficiency affecting 80–90% of American children.

How was rickets nearly eliminated

By supplementing milk, margarine, and cereals with vitamin D.

What is cretinism

Severe retardation due to thyroid hormone deficiency

How was cretinism treated

Iodinated salt

What causes beriberi

Thiamine deficiency from polished rice

What were the effects of beriberi

Impairment of nerves and heart; extreme weakness

How was beriberi treated

Cured with supplementation

What are symptoms of scurvy

Bleeding gums, weakness, malaise

How was scurvy prevented

Vitamin C Supplementation