Research On Obesity

There is much ongoing Research on obesity. The NIH or National Institutes of Health part of the U.S. department of health and Human Services, has ongoing studies for research on obesity. There are many components of the NIH involved in the research on obesity, from the National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases to the Office of Dietary Supplements. There are also other organizations private and public that conduct research on obesity.

This research leads to the development of better obesity treatments such as pharmaceuticals or weight loss programs. Research on obesity also studies the role genetics play in tendency to be obese. Another role obesity research plays is the prevention and treatment of obesity related illness.

While I feel, due to the stigma placed on obesity, figures on the cost are exaggerated, the obesity epidemic in the U.S. is still quite taxing on an already weakened health system. Research on obesity is a great way to combat this increasing epidemic.

Since obesity is a broad term for a wide range of issues further research on obesity will always be needed. Many people including myself resisted defining obesity as a disease, however I am now convinced. Webster’s defines disease as a condition of the living animal or plant body or of one of its parts that impairs normal functioning and is typically manifested by distinguishing signs and symptoms. I am sorry some may disagree but I feel obesity falls under this definition.

One interesting area of research is the role genetics plays in our tendency to be obese. I feel that taking genetic research on obesity in to account may lead to a more personalized treatment for obesity, possibly through pharmaceuticals or a personalized weight loss program. Hopefully with further research on obesity more solutions will be made available for those struggling with weight issues.