The chosen article discusses the influence of urbanization on the growing obesity epidemic. At the same time, some may think that the inhabitants of suburban areas are more prone to obesity or being overweight. However, the findings of this study had shown an exciting rate of urban obesity (Lopez & Hynes, 2006). The study initially suggested that some suburban areas’ features can be tied to decreased physical activity and, as a result, a higher chance of getting an overweight population.
Additionally, the study had proved that suburban areas’ features could not be connected to the higher risks of obesity since the inner-city population has higher rates of illness. The study suggested that the reason for the paradox is in some government decisions concerning different policies in the inner and outer cities (Lopez & Hynes, 2006). Moreover, the research suggests that infrastructure can also be partially blamed for the obesity epidemic (Lopez & Hynes, 2006). The study was conducted within different spheres to test all the possibilities; thus, the findings can be considered valid for that time.
To combat these issues, the government should implement more choices both in urban and suburban areas. For example, in Japan, the country known as the place with one of the lowest BMI globally, healthy and unhealthy food choices are equally convenient. An average Japanese person is able to buy healthy lunch, unsweetened beverage, and relatively healthy snack, which is as convenient and fast as buying fast food. The Japanese have a developed transportation system, but most people enjoy using bicycles as a primary means of transportation since almost everything can be accessed via them. Therefore, the countries’ governments, where obesity is a grave issue, should make healthier options as available as harmful ones.
Reference
Lopez, R., & Hynes, P. (2006). Obesity, physical activity, and the urban environment: Public health research needs. Environmental Health, 5, 25. Web.