Discussion Post: Handbook of Health Psychological and Behavioral Medicine
The United States has the highest number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations of COVID-19 patients, and COVID-19 deaths in the world (WHO, 2020). It also has the highest rate of obesity in the world with approximately 42.4% of its population falling into that category in a 2017-18 study (NCHS, 2020). According to findings thus far, obesity is one of the strongest risk factors for more severe COVID-19 symptoms and need for hospitalization. "A report on 4103 patients with COVID-19 disease in New York City found that the most important clinical features leading to hospital admission were age>65 years and obesity itself, more than hypertension, diabetes or cardiovascular disease" (Finer, Garnett, & Bruun, 2020, p. 1).
Based on what you have learned from the required readings, why do you think our rates for obesity and COVID-19 are so high in the United States and what can be done to lower our risk in future pandemics? What role can psychologists play in that effort?
The response must include a reference list. One-inch margins, double-space, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font and APA style of writing and citations.
References
• Finer, N., Garnett, S. P., & Bruun, J. M. (2020). Editorial: COVID-19 and obesity. Clinical Obesity, 10, 1-2.
• National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). (2020, February). NCHS data brief: Prevalence of obesity and severe obesity among adults, United States, 2017-2018. Hyattsville, MD: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• World Health Organization (WHO). (2020, June 13). Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) situation report 145.