As of 2013, obesity has been officially recognized as a disease by some of the nation’s leading medical groups, such as the American Medical Association (AMA), American Heart Association, and the World Health Organization. With a rich body of literature to support the recognition of obesity as a disease, there still is a lot of controversy for this change. As a student majoring in psychology and neuroscience, I was automatically interested in this topic and decided to explore this topic further in hopes of understanding the science behind the disease portion, but also the psycho-social impacts it could have on the nation.
First, it is important to realize that the literature on this topic is incredibly convincing. Most of the research demonstrates that obesity is a complex disease mediated through the interplay of multiple genetic, biological, and metabolic determinants. After close analysis of the research, it is hard to argue that obesity does not have a medical basis. However, some people refuse to see obesity as a brain disease and instead believe that it is based on choice. Therefore, obesity is heavily stigmatize because of the perception that it is caused by modifiable behavioral factors such as diet and physical inactivity.
The Pros:
Proponents for recognizing obesity as a disease believe that it will help change the way the medical community tackles this complex issue. It could induce physicians to pay more attention to the condition and ultimately have more empathy. Similarly, defining obesity as a disease will hopefully spur more insurers to pay for treatments. Other supporters argue that it fits the definition of a disease, with similar medical patterns such as hormone imbalances, neurotransmitter deficiencies, and nutritional exhausted. Without considering obesity as a disease, important underlying medical issues may not be addressed by the physician.
The Cons:
There are many arguments against defining obesity as a disease. Firstly, the measure used to define obesity is the body mass index (BMI) scale which many believe to be too simplistic and flawed. Today, a BMI of 27 is considered obese. Some of the most fit people have a BMI of 27 because muscle weighs more than fat, and the scale does not take that into consideration. Another one of the main arguments against recognizing obesity as a disease is the fear that it will make people passive participants of their health. Instead of encouraging people to eat healthier and exercise more, some people believe that this will make people feel helpless. The focus will turn to creating medications to fight obesity instead of focusing on making smart, healthy lifestyle choices.
Though this is not a simple topic, I like to believe that like most controversial issues, the answer lies in both sides of the issue. The hard scientist in me believes that the research is obvious and that obesity has to be recognized as a disease. My psychological perspective though, leads me to believe that considering obesity as a disease could lead to social consequences. So where should the line be drawn? What is the answer?
Again, as with many of the most controversial topics in the world today, I find that the more I know the more I question.
Defining Obesity as a Disease: The Pros and Cons
