Obesity In America

Watch Obesity In America

  • 2010
  • 1 Season

Obesity In America is a documentary produced by PBS that explores the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to the obesity epidemic in the United States. The film features interviews with experts in the fields of nutrition, public health, and medicine, as well as individuals struggling with obesity themselves.

The documentary begins by outlining the staggering statistics surrounding obesity in America. Over 70% of adults in the U.S. are either overweight or obese, and the rates of childhood obesity have tripled over the past 30 years. The film then delves into the complex factors that contribute to this epidemic, from the rise of fast food and processed foods to the prevalence of sedentary lifestyles and lack of access to healthy food options in some communities.

One of the key themes of Obesity In America is the role that poverty and inequality play in shaping eating habits and obesity rates. The film highlights the fact that healthy food options are often more expensive and less accessible in low-income neighborhoods, leading to a cycle of unhealthy eating and increased risk of obesity-related health problems. Similarly, the film discusses how disparities in healthcare access and quality can affect overweight and obese individuals, with some communities facing greater challenges in accessing obesity prevention and treatment resources.

Obesity In America also explores the health consequences of obesity, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, and how these conditions disproportionately affect marginalized communities. The film features interviews with medical experts who discuss the challenges of treating obesity-related health problems, and how prevention and early intervention can be crucial in improving health outcomes for those who are struggling with their weight.

One of the most powerful aspects of the documentary is the personal stories shared by individuals who are living with obesity. These individuals open up about their struggles with body image, self-esteem, and navigating a world that can be hostile towards those who are overweight. Their stories highlight the complexities of obesity and the need for a multifaceted approach to addressing the issue, one that takes into account the individual experiences of those affected.

Throughout the film, Obesity In America highlights the various strategies that are being used to address the obesity epidemic, from public health campaigns to policy interventions. The documentary examines the effectiveness of programs like WIC, SNAP, and school lunch programs in improving dietary health, as well as initiatives like the sugar tax and menu labeling regulations that aim to make healthy choices easier for consumers.

The film also discusses the potential of preventative measures, like increasing physical activity at school and in the workplace, as well as the need for greater investment in obesity research to better understand the complex factors that contribute to the issue.

Overall, Obesity In America is a thought-provoking and deeply moving documentary that sheds light on one of the most pressing public health issues facing the United States today. It takes a nuanced and compassionate approach to this complex issue, highlighting the need for a multifaceted and collaborative response to address the root causes of obesity and improve health outcomes for all Americans.

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Seasons
Will Obesity Reverse Rise in U.S. Life Expectancy?
8. Will Obesity Reverse Rise in U.S. Life Expectancy?
May 8, 2012
Public health experts have long warned of a growing obesity epidemic in America. This week, the Institute of Medicine and others launched a major campaign in hopes of curbing the problem. Ray Suarez and Dr. Francis Collins of the National Institutes of Health discuss the personal and public consequences of obesity.
High Obesity Rates Stress U.S. Health Care Budgets
7. High Obesity Rates Stress U.S. Health Care Budgets
July 27, 2009
A recent study found that obesity rates grew 37 percent from 1998 to 2008 and account for 10 percent of the nation's health care spending. The author of the report speaks with Gwen Ifill about health concerns in the U.S.
New York City's Mayor Proposes Ban on Large, Sugary Drinks
6. New York City's Mayor Proposes Ban on Large, Sugary Drinks
May 31, 2012
In this May 2012 conversation, Judy Woodruff speaks with New York Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley and Andrew Moesel of the New York State Restaurant Association about New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's proposed ban on the sale of large, sugary drinks at restaurants, movie theaters, sports venues and street carts to help fight obesity.
California City Considers Sugary Drink Tax
5. California City Considers Sugary Drink Tax
June 7, 2012
A look at a controversial plan by the city of Richmond, California to tax soda and other sugary drinks. Spencer Michels reports.
Michelle Obama: Team Effort Needed to Halt Childhood
4. Michelle Obama: Team Effort Needed to Halt Childhood
February 9, 2010
In this June 2010 interview, Jim Lehrer speaks with first lady Michelle Obama about her initiative to address the issue of childhood obesity in the U.S. and what needs to be done to help bring it under control.
Mississippi Fried Food Fight Against Childhood Obesity
3. Mississippi Fried Food Fight Against Childhood Obesity
May 12, 2010
A look at the battle being waged in Mississippi against the fried foods that have become traditional staples in the state. Betty Ann Bowser reports.
Mississippi 'Food Deserts' Fuel Obesity Epidemic
2. Mississippi 'Food Deserts' Fuel Obesity Epidemic
June 3, 2010
As the government highlights the growing health risks of childhood obesity, Betty Ann Bowser reports from the Mississippi Delta on how so-called "food deserts" keep some communities from access to healthy food.
Chefs Cook Up Ideas for Healthy School Lunches
1. Chefs Cook Up Ideas for Healthy School Lunches
August 6, 2010
Two chefs from New York City have stepped out of their kitchens and into school cafeterias to lend their services in hopes of crafting healthier menus for school lunches. Betty Ann Bowser reports.
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  • Premiere Date
    August 6, 2010