Etiology
Obesity is the result of an imbalance of energy intake and energy expenditure. Genetics, environment and behavior, all contribute to obesity risk. The rapid increase in prevalence of children who are obese and overweight cannot be explained by genetics alone.
Although diet and exercise are key determinants of weight, environmental factors beyond the control of individuals (including lack of access to full-service grocery stores, high costs of healthy foods, and lack of access to safe places to play and exercise) contribute to increased obesity rates by reducing the likelihood of healthy eating and active living behaviors.
Ubiquitous shifts in food practices, changes in our built communities, a marked increase in sedentary activities opportunities, and a food industry which spends billions marketing unhealthy food choices to children at very young ages, are some of the major causes of the epidemic
