A recent study found the baby boomer generation (those people born between 1946 and 1965) are more obese than other age groups. According to a study by the Associated Press in conjunction with LifeGoesStrong.com, 36 percent of the baby boomer generation is obese as compared to 26 percent of older survey respondents and 25 percent of younger respondents.
Sixty percent of the boomers studied were dieting to lose weight, and slightly more were eating more fruits and vegetables and foods lower in carbohydrates and salt.
However, diet is not the only aspect of losing weight, said Dr. Humaira Khan, board-certified family physician at MetroSouth Health Center at Alsip.
“Too often we immediately associate ‘weight-loss’ with ‘dieting’, but dieting alone, without an exercise component, could diminish a patient’s muscle mass, which already naturally decreases with age,” Dr. Khan said. “Incorporating both diet and exercise is the key to a long-term, healthy weight.”
According to the study, approximately 77 percent of boomers may be eligible for Medicare benefits. It is estimated that obese Medicare beneficiaries cost 34 percent more than their non-obese/overweight counterparts.
While most of the studied baby boomers reported getting aerobic exercise (exercise that increases your heart rate) at least once a week, most adults should be getting 2.5 hours per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Examples of this kind of activity include brisk walking, jogging, dancing, and pushing a lawn mower.
“Obesity in the boomer generation now is especially alarming because it is a precursor to unhealthy senior years,” Dr. Khan said. “For an obese patient, seeking professional help from a physician is vital to begin fighting this condition before it is too late.”
Obesity is a life-threatening condition and, if untreated, can lead to other life-threatening conditions including:
- Cancer
- Recurring cancer
- Rapid-progression cancer
- Respiratory problems
- Sleep apnea
- Infertility
- Type II Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Liver/Gallbladder disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Coronary heart disease
“Every individual is different so it is best to work closely with a physician to establish a customized plan—one that fits into your schedule and daily life—for fighting obesity and preventing future health problems,” Dr. Khan said.
For tips on fighting obesity, or to speak with Dr. Khan about your risk of obesity, please call MetroSouth Health Center at Alsip at 708-385-5601. Schedule a physical with Dr. Khan before December 31, 2011 and receive a free AMC movie ticket or re-usable lunch bag.
