Obesity Staging System Predicts Mortality Better Than BMI
Two new studies show that the Edmonton Obesity Staging System (EOSS), a 5-point system that ranks obese patients by presence of physical, mental and functional health (Stage 0: no health problems to Stage 4: irreversible (end-stage) health problems), is superior to anthropometric measures in predicting mortality in overweight and obese individuals. The independent studies examined large populations from the US-NHANES and the Aerobics Centre Longitudinal Study, respectively. Lower EOSS scores were associated with healthier eating and greater physical fitness, while higher EOSS scores were associated with history of weight cycling. Importantly, EOSS 0/1 individuals with Class III obesity had no increased risk of mortality over the almost 20 year observation periods, while overweight and Class I obese individuals with higher EOSS scores had a mortality risk comparable to individuals with higher EOSS scores at higher BMIs. Dr. Arya Sharma, who first developed the Staging System, says, "While BMI tells me how 'big' my patient is, EOSS tells me how 'sick' my patient is - this is a better way to make decisions about treatment plans including weight loss than BMI alone".
The articles were published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal and Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism. A video of Dr. Sharma explaining EOSS can be seen here.
The Battle of the Bulge
A History of Obesity Research
George A. Bray
Weight is probably the number one thing on the minds of many people these days-and given the numbers of diet books; weight loss centers; and low-fat, low-carb, high-protein prepackaged foods on the market, it's an issue so many people are seriously trying to tackle. In this historical summary, based on the series of articles published in Obesity Research, George Bray provides a comprehensive survey of weight throughout time in his book The Battle of the Bulge: A history of Obesity Research. Beginning with evidence of overweight individuals in the earliest times through artifacts, legends, and writings, Bray makes it clear that obesity isn't a problem isolated to the modern day. Much attention is paid to the medical advancements that led to greater understanding of the physical and psychological factors that contribute to weight gain and obesity. In addition to the physical and mental pain obesity can cause, he also examines recurring trends in terms of diets and treatments to point out the futility of fad diets. In all, this scientific-minded approach to the study of overweight seeks to answer, through data and observation three core issues: What is obesity, how did we get that way, and what can we do about it? Besides the commentaries in each area which cover 400 pages, there are 57 classic papers reproduced or translated into English to provide the key documents needed for anyone interested in the history of obesity.
The retail cost of the book is $57.00, but it is available from Dorrance Publishing for $31.35.
Please visit: http://dorrance.stores.yahoo.net/baofbuhiofob.html
Healthy Living Center
The Hattie Mae Children's Healthy Living Center and Funville Activity Park is America's first activity complex devoted to combating childhood obesity. With a planned opening for Fall 2013, the complex will include a 60,000 sq. ft. facility on over 70 acres of land located in D'Iberville Mississippi.
Upon completion, the center and grounds will be a physical model of the Hattie Mae & Pals Foundation team's commitment to educate children in the fundamental importance of making healthy choices in all aspects of their lives.
"We are very excited to help Mississippi lead the way in the fight against childhood obesity on a National and International level. Everyone supports the cause of bettering the lives of children, especially given the recent upsurge in childhood obesity," said Foundation CEO, Shawn Smith. "This center will provide children with resources, tools, and a safe place to exercise and play in a safe, healthy environment."
Please visit: www.hattiemaeandpals.org
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