REPLIES: Reply to two of your classmates that live in different states. Compare and contrast your state’s obesity data to theirs (see attachment for my initial discussion) and discuss obesity preventi

POST # 2: LINDA

An individual with obesity has a body mass index above thirty based on height and weight. The dangers of obesity encompass mechanical and hormonal problems. For example, changes in mood changes (such as depression) or chronic conditions (like hypertension) can occur (“Health risks,” 2020). Risk factors include minimal education, low income, increased age, and ethnicity. More specifically, individuals classified as non-Hispanic black, Hispanic, or non-Hispanic whites have a higher chance of obesity. A person’s location or home can also predispose the development of the condition (“Obesity,” 2020). In all, the purpose of this discussion is to examine obesity and the associated health disparities in New Hampshire and the United States. 

     The attached photo represents one cause of obesity in the United States. Due to advancements in technology, individuals are spending less time outdoors, and more time in front of a screen. Representing a combination of technology and unhealthy food, the above photo shows what can happen with a sedentary lifestyle. It is obvious the cartoon man in the photo is overweight (due to his large belly). Adults who utilize technology and work a sedentary job must make an effort to move. Exercising daily is essential for preventing cardiovascular diseases and improving quality of life. Working out thirty minutes a few times a week while living a sedentary lifestyle is not effective for preventing negative health consequences (Pender et al., 2015). Thus, the attached photo accurately depicts the relationship between obesity and the United States.

     Both the United States and New Hampshire are similar and different regarding their obesity rates. Currently, 29.6% of New Hampshire’s population is obese. The highest rates of obesity occur in Mississippi and West Virginia at 39.5%, while the lowest are in Colorodo, Hawaii, and New Jersey. Only 22.9% of Colorado’s population is obese. Comparing obesity between New Hampshire and the United States as a whole demonstrates differences due to gender, ethnicity, age, and education. More females are obese in New Hampshire than in the United States (28.1% in New Hampshire compared to 31.3% in the United States). The statistic is reversed for males; the prevalence of obesity in the United States is less than New Hampshire. In relation to ethnicity, less minority groups are obese in New Hampshire compared to the United States (28.9% compared to 32%). Interestingly, the percent of obese people between the ages of 18 and 44 and over 65 are equivalent between New Hampshire and the United States. The largest disparity is due to education. In New Hampshire, 43% of individuals who do not graduate high school are obese compared to the national average of 36% (“Obesity,” 2020). 

     There are several health disparities that lead to obesity in New Hampshire related to education, mental distress, and drug use (“Obesity,” 2020). For example, schools that offer a reduced lunch program to more than 50% of the students have higher rates of obesity compared to schools that offer the program to less than 25% of students. This statistic is possibly due to low incomes or poverty, especially in Manchester where incomes are far less than in other parts of the state. Without proper finances, individuals struggle to receive nutrition education, leading to poor health. Also, low income families could exhibit mental distress related to life stressors, such as paying bills and providing food. More stress often leads to unhealthy behaviors. Lastly, the rise of drug use in New Hampshire may contribute to obesity (Wood et al., 2013). Unfortunately, New Hampshire has one of the highest rates of drug use in New England, ranking third in the United States. As a person becomes addicted, they will struggle with physical and emotional health. It is possible drug addicts prioritize being high more than eating healthy and obtaining exercise (“Greater Manchester Community,” 2016). In all, varies factors in New Hampshire can result in obesity. 

     Obesity around the world is a preventive disease that affects countless people. Due to factors such as the rise in technology, more individuals are spending less time moving and more time sitting. In New Hampshire alone, obesity rates are similar to those in the United States, with causes such as drug use, mental health, and education. An advanced nurse should understand disparities between multiple states so they can assist patients in obtaining resources to live the healthiest life possible. 

References

Greater Manchester community health needs assessment 2016. (2016). Catholic medical center. Retrieved June 1, 2020, from https://www.catholicmedicalcenter.org/CatholicMedicalCenter/media/CMCE-Media-Library/PDFs/Greater_Manchester_Community_Health_Needs_Assessment_June_1.pdf

Health risks. (2020). Harvard school of public health. Retrieved June 1, 2020, from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/obesity-prevention-source/obesityconsequences/health-effects/

Obesity. (2020). United health foundation. Retrieved June 1, 2020, from https://www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/annual/measure/Obesity/state/NH

Pender, N., Murdaugh, C., & Parsons, M. (2015). Health promotion in nursing practice (7th ed.). Pearson Education Inc. 

Uppal, G. (2019). [Man with sedentary lifestyle] [Photograph]. Medium. https://medium.com/@gagan.uppal9/does-technology-encourage-a-sedentary-lifestyle-59867aa1a209

Wood, M., Toumpas, N., Montero, J., & Bujno, L. (2013, October). New Hampshire state health improvement project 2013-2020. NH division of public health services. https://www.astho.org/Accreditation/New-Hampshire-State-Health-Improvement-Plan/