Health News

There is little doubt that obesity has many health consequences Many overweight people, however, suffer few serious consequences that are a direct result of obesity. Obesity and its treatment are not simply issues of physical health; psychological and social issues must also be taken into account.

Many people who are unhappy with the shape of their bodies and want to lose fat have no obvious health problems associated with obesity. They may not even be significantly overweight. There are strong suggestions, particularly relevant to women, in advertising, entertainment, fashion and publishing that thinness is desirable and an indication of a successful life. Is it ethical for professionals to contribute to this pressure? Should we not instead be helping people to feel good about themselves irrespective of how they look, if the health risks seem minimal?

Pressure from others to lose fat raises ethical questions about individual freedom. Is it a right or a duty to be healthy? Should you be free to eat how and what you choose or do you have an obligation to society to eat healthily and meet normal criteria? Why should it be wrong for an obese person to enjoy a pleasure-giving chocolate bar, but right to follow someone’s advice of going without, which would give a degree of displeasure?

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