Epidemiological Triangle

Obesity in America is on the rise. In the last few decades, the world has changed in a very dramatic way. Computers, cellphones, the internet, and video games have brought teenage obesity to a disturbing level. While there isn't one single cause of obesity; there are a number of factors that come into play. For example, genetic, biological, behavioral, and cultural factors play a big role in obesity. The official website of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says that obesity is often related to bad eating habits, overeating or binging, no exercise, family history, medical issues, stress or extreme life changes, family issues, low self-esteem, or depression (2011). Yes, a few extra pounds isn't dangerous for most people but obesity is a serious health issue. It puts a definite strain on the body. It can cause serious health problems like
The epidemiological triangle focuses on the three primary factors that directly effect the “what”, “who”, and “where” of diseases (Ferng, 2011). One of these factors is the disease agent and its characteristics, the host and the host’s vulnerability to the disease, and the environment that surrounds the agent and host (Ferng, 2011). It is crucial to examine these components and how they interrelate to reach a better understanding of the disease. In one corner of the epidemiology triangle for obesity there’s the agent, obesity. Having a weight which is 20% or more than what is considered ideal for one’s age, gender, height and bone structure (Gay, 2006). At the second corner of the triangle would be the host, which would be someone with genetic predisposition to obesity, or who has a lot of stress or anxiety and low self-esteem. In the last corner of the triangle would be the environment that the agent and the host reside in, which is the one that puts an emphasis on convenient foods and a lazy