Is Lack of Government Regulation Causing an Obesity Epidemic? In America, fast food is a staple in many people's diets. As a result, the United States now faces a serious obesity epidemic that continues to worsen each year. In addition to impacting the economy, some of the impacts on people are cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke, all linked to obesity. According to the CDC, “The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has found that the combination of poor diet and lack of physical activity can cause 310,000 to 580,000 deaths each year” (Therian). One-fifth of Americans today die from obesity-related illnesses, and one in three Americans is considered obese. This figure is expected to reach 50% of the population by 2030 and, if left unchecked, will have a negative impact on future generations.1 Initiatives are currently being put in place to help combat obesity, mainly by the federal government in the hope that they can provide effective measures. change to a growing problem. Factors such as socioeconomic status and generally environmental factors are known to contribute to the obesity epidemic. Obesity-related issues are also known to have a negative economic impact on America. Unfortunately, despite recent steps taken by the federal government to try to end obesity. The fast food industry is not very willing to contribute to the fight against the epidemic. Fortunately, since the election of President Obama, new initiatives have been proposed to combat the obesity epidemic in our country. For example, on December 13, 2010, President Obama signed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, which allocated $4.5 billion in government funds to improve school meals and replace common unhealthy foods. ..... middle of paper ......e. If no changes are made, then it will be up to external sources to combat the problem. Such views are also reflected by the United Nations, a recent study published in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization, which states: “The study has important policy implications. In particular, they suggest that government regulations hindering the spread of fast food consumption could help mitigate the obesity epidemic” (quoted in Bulletin of the World Health Organization Vogil Kounoven Gimeno 104). While opponents of increased government regulation might view any government action that becomes more involved in what Americans eat as intrusive. The fact that nearly half a million Americans die each year from a largely preventable problem could inspire people to help others live healthier lives and promote the government's duty to help Americans in the need..