Obesity | Health System and Economics

Running Head: HEALTH SYSTEMS AND ECONOMICS 1
Health System and Economics
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HEALTH SYSTEMS AND ECONOMICS 2
Table of Contents
Executive summary.........................................................................................................................3
Introduction......................................................................................................................................3
Main Body.......................................................................................................................................3
Question 1....................................................................................................................................3
Question 2....................................................................................................................................4
Question 3....................................................................................................................................5
Question 4....................................................................................................................................6
Conclusion.......................................................................................................................................7
Recommendations............................................................................................................................7
References........................................................................................................................................8

HEALTH SYSTEMS AND ECONOMICS 3
Health System and Economics
Executive summary
Obesity is a common problem in the world. Due to advances in technology, individuals are less
likely to engage in physical activity. The growth of the fast food industry has also encouraged
more individuals to eat junk food. Currently, nearly one third of individuals in the world are
overweight. The aim of this paper is to address the issue of obesity in New Zealand. The various
government initiatives will be analyzed and the systems thinking approach will be reviewed.
Recommendations will also be given on how to improve the issue
Introduction
The public health issue chosen is obesity. This is a condition that occurs when the
individual’s body mass index (BMI) is above 30 or is equivalent to 30. The body mass index is
measured by comparing the individual’s weight to their height. Excess weight is often linked to
several lath conditions such as cardiovascular issues, heart failure, cancer, diabetes, stroke, high
blood pressure, sleep apnea, and even osteoarthritis.
Main Body
Question 1
New Zealand currently has the highest rate of obesity in Australia. It is estimated that
every 1 in ten adults in New Zealand are obese, while every 1 in ten children in New Zealand is
obese. It is also estimated that adults who are living in areas that have reduced socio-economic
activity are more likely to be obese as compared to adults living in better socio-economic areas.
Lack of knowledge has also contributed significantly to the increase in the number of individuals