Studies have suggested, with childhood obesity rates tripling over the last 25 years in advanced societies, that longevity may start to decline, despite the counteractive impact of modern medicines.

But do such articles have an impact on our thinking, especially those who fall in the obese classification —those with a body mass index (BMI) over 30?

Obesity is an emotionally charged issue. Denial is common. Others may acknowledge obesity but seem unable to do anything about it.

Some claim obesity is irrelevant. Yet, it is well established that there is a correlation between obesity and diabetes, heart disease and some forms of cancer.

Is obesity, or being overweight, simply a condition of modern life? Are there solutions?

There have been campaigns to require that physical education be mandated for all students at all grade levels. But will the effects of that extend beyond school into adulthood?

Should adults depend upon regular visits to a commercial health club?

The components of being of normal weight and good fitness are not unknown. Fundamentally, being moderately active several times a week and not consuming excessive calories are what is required. Of course, there is an assumption that the harmful activities of smoking and undue alcohol consumption are avoided.

In many ways, a sufficient level of activity can be maintained around a home, simply by pushing a lawnmower, performing maintenance, cleaning house or washing a car (now restricted in the county).

However, there are obstacles to maintaining weight and fitness. The lack of sidewalks and bike lanes can make walking and biking unpleasant, if not dangerous, activities.

To the credit of Gwinnett County, many parks are now opening with paved trails for walking and biking. But doesn’t driving to a park for exercise seem counterintuitive?

It is the unusually restrained person who can regularly eat out and not gain weight. Restaurant food is invariably laden with fats. For most, saying “no” to eating out is a first step in decreasing caloric intake.

It seems evident that combating obesity does require a change in mindset - a willingness to not accept blindly the conventions of modern life.

Do you think obesity is a problem? If so, what are you personally doing to prevent or combat it? Should the community or government be doing more to facilitate fitness activities?

Jim Grattan is a software engineer and avid bicyclist. He lives in the Grayson area with his wife Shirley and four Golden Retrievers.”

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My wife and I are in our late 30’s and do aerobics DVD’s 5 times per week, 30 minutes per session, in the comfort of our own home. We are in the best shape of our lives and we eat what we want when we want. It’s not that hard, folks. You

... read the full comment by Jim Swilley | Comment on What's the skinny on the obesity issue? Read What's the skinny on the obesity issue?

But will PE4life have a lifelong impact. When one is out of a school environment, where does the support come from if needed? I think that we as a nation need to value lifelong fitness. That would be reflected in sidewalks, bikelanes, and employers making

... read the full comment by One Man's View | Comment on What's the skinny on the obesity issue? Read What's the skinny on the obesity issue?

Naperville Illinois has found a solution to the childhood obesity crisis - 21st century quality PE - known as PE4life - recent results in Naperville only 3% of students were over weight or obese - breaking news - Naperville also discovered working with

... read the full comment by plawler | Comment on What's the skinny on the obesity issue? Read What's the skinny on the obesity issue?