Obesity Epidemic
Published January 4th, 2013
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GAINESVILLE- It's the first week of the New Year and at the top of the list for people's resolutions is losing weight. And while many are trying to get off their couches this new year, many are also just clinging on to their junk food. The percentage of overweight people in the United States, is among the highest in the world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of adults in the U.S. are obese.
Dr. Richard Shriner with shands hospital, who's certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine says at this point, he's worried about the country's future. "Our children. Moving forward from where we are... A third of our children are going to be obese. The number one killer is type two diabetes and that's why we have to get a hold off the weight."
One way the government is considering to handle the problem is by implementing soda taxes or fat taxes. Whether that's a solution to america's health problems or a way to cutback on healthcare. A recent poll by the associated press shows most people don't want that.
In fact, nearly 6 out of 10 people oppose these type of taxes. Stay tuned tonight at 11, to find out whether people in North Central Florida agree or disagree with these food taxes and what they think of our country's overall obesity problem.
Reporter:
Stephanie Bechara
