Daily Times

Sir: At the moment, the whole world is in the grip of obesity. Obesity is a condition in which a person has accumulated so much body-fat that it begins to have serious implications on their health. In most cases a person with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 is considered obese.

This condition has become so prevalent today due to a number of factors. Factory made foods and fast food has almost become a staple all over the world. Aggressive marketing campaigns targeting children get them addicted to junk food, sugar and fizzy drinks at a young age, creating customers for life. At the same time, the rise of computers, smart-phones, social media and video games have reduced the attraction children have for sports. This gets them used to a sedentary lifestyle.

As a result of all this, conditions linked to obesity such as diabetes, coronary disease, back problems and depression. Education and awareness are what is needed to combat this epidemic. Parents and schools must play their due role in teaching their children about a healthy diet and lifestyle. Sports must be encouraged and children should be discouraged from studying and playing video games all day. Let us hope that a healthier world is around the corner!

AYESHA IMTIAZ

Karachi

Published in Daily Times, February 25^th 2018.