Obesity: You and Me — A Call to Action

By: Jovenia Salazar Lindsay, RN, MSN, MBA

Introduction: Self-Reflection

Several months ago, a few of my college friends visited me for the first time in several years. We were excited to reconnect, sharing laughter and memories from our college days. As we took photos together, however, one thing became immediately apparent—our looks had transformed significantly. During college, we were lean and physically active, yet now most of us appear slightly heavier. This observation prompted an important question: How did we get here?

That moment sparked a simple reflection on what we do daily; we become that eventually. Our daily habits gradually shape our health. Suddenly, we are confronted with dangerous health challenges, among which obesity is prevalent. Obesity is not simply a matter of appearance; it is a complex public health issue with far-reaching consequences. This article explores obesity as a global health challenge by examining its prevalence, contributing factors, health consequences, and evidence-based strategies for prevention and management. The goal is to emphasize the importance of intentional caring for our physical health in the hope of promoting fulfilling, healthier lives.

Obesity and Its Prevalence

Obesity is a global epidemic that poses various health risks. It is a chronic disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation, which increases the risk of numerous adverse health outcomes (World Health Organization [WHO], 2025), such as diabetes, hypertension, mental health issues, sleep apnea, and some types of cancers (Emmerich et al., 2024; Tang et al., 2021; Purnell, 2023). In adults, obesity is commonly assessed using body mass index (BMI), with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher indicating obesity, whereas age- and sex-specific growth charts are used for children (WHO, 2025).

Globally, obesity has reached alarming levels. In 2022, more than one billion individuals were living with obesity, including approximately 890 million adults and 160 million children and adolescents (WHO, 2025). Since 1990, adult obesity rates have more than doubled, while childhood obesity has increased nearly tenfold (World Obesity Federation, 2024). Projections suggest that by 2050, nearly 60% of adults and 31% of children worldwide may be overweight or obese (GBD 2021 Adult BMI Collaborators, 2025).

In the United States, the situation is particularly concerning. Over 40% of adults are currently classified as obese, and projections indicate that nearly half of U.S. adults could be obese by 2030, with rates of severe obesity continuing to rise (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2024; Ward et al., 2019). These trends underscore the urgent need for comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies.

Contributing Factors Associated with Obesity

Obesity is a multifactorial condition influenced by genetic, behavioral, environmental, and social factors. While genetics and socioeconomic conditions play an important role, many contributing behaviors are modifiable. Dietary patterns are a significant factor; frequent consumption of energy-dense foods, sugar-sweetened beverages, and large portion sizes increases the likelihood of excessive weight gain (Kao et al., 2025).

Physical inactivity is another significant contributor. Prolonged sedentary behaviors such as extended screen time or desk-based work have been associated with weight gain (Chen et al., 2025). Sleep patterns also influence body weight. Inadequate sleep disrupts hormonal regulation of appetite, increasing hunger and preference for calorie-dense foods (Gale et al., 2025).

Psychological stress further contributes to obesity by promoting emotional eating and unhealthy coping behaviors. Chronic stress can create a cycle of poor dietary choices, disrupted sleep, and reduced physical activity, making weight management increasingly difficult (Jankowska, 2025). Together, these factors illustrate how modern lifestyles can unintentionally promote weight gain over time.

Health Consequences of Obesity

Excess body weight affects nearly every system in the body. Cardiovascular disease is one of the most significant consequences, as obesity contributes to hypertension, dyslipidemia, and increased cardiac workload, all of which elevate the risk of heart attack and stroke (Grossman, 2025; Volpe & Gallo, 2023). Obesity is also strongly associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as excess adipose tissue impairs insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation (Chandrasekaran & Weiskirchen, 2024; Ruze et al., 2023).

In addition, obesity increases the risk of several cancers, including breast and colorectal cancers, through mechanisms involving chronic inflammation, altered hormone levels, and metabolic dysregulation (Ingram et al., 2025; Surmacz et al., 2023). Musculoskeletal complications, such as joint pain and osteoarthritis, are common due to increased mechanical stress, often limiting mobility and further perpetuating weight gain (Molina & Morgan, 2023).

Beyond its physiological and bodily effects, obesity is closely linked to mental health outcomes. Individuals with obesity experience higher rates of depression and anxiety, partly due to biological factors and partly due to social stigma and discrimination (Jankowska, 2025). These interconnected health effects highlight the seriousness of obesity as a public health concern.

Call for ourselves: Returning to the Basics

Although pharmacological and surgical interventions may be appropriate for some individuals, sustainable obesity prevention and management begin with everyday lifestyle habits. For genetic and sociocultural obesity, behavioral modifications might not be enough, but any behavioral health initiatives are inherently promising for supporting day-to-day life. Evidence consistently supports the four foundational behavioral strategies.

First, mindful eating—paying attention to hunger cues, food choices, and fullness—reduces overeating and promotes healthier dietary behaviors (Kao et al., 2025). Second, increasing physical activity, even though moderate activities such as daily walking, improves metabolic health and supports weight management (Chambers et al., 2025; Rotunda et al., 2024).

Third, adequate sleep plays a critical role in maintaining hormonal balance and regulating appetite, thereby reducing cravings and excess caloric intake (Hall, 2025; Porri et al., 2024). Additionally, effective stress management through relaxation techniques and behavioral interventions can reduce emotional eating and improve overall well-being (Calderone et al., 2025; Webster et al., 2025). While simple in principle, these strategies are powerful when practiced consistently.

Conclusion

Obesity represents a serious and growing public health challenge with profound implications for physical and mental health. Although its attributing factors are complex, many contributing behaviors are modifiable through informed lifestyle choices. Prioritizing nutritious diets, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management can significantly improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Ultimately, the choice—mine and yours—in how we care for the physical bodies we are gifted is ours to make. At the end of my friend’s visit, we shared stories of body pains and aches and jokingly challenged ourselves to be a little lighter in the coming years in pursuit of better health. Whether this resolve remains a wish or becomes a reality will be revealed by our daily choices over time. This reflection brings to mind an ancient proverb, yet a practical reminder: if you find something sweet, eat only what is enough—too much will make you sick (Proverbs 25:16), alongside the counsel that foods are to be used “sparingly” in Doctrine and Covenants 89:10-17 (The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints, 1833) —a gentle reminder that moderation and intentional living can help redirect both our health and our lives.

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