Obesity has become the nation’s
fastest growing epidemic. According to the CDC, one-third of the nation’s
population is obese. Obesity leads to heart disease, fatty liver, stroke, type
2 diabetes, and increased healthcare costs.
Weight of the Nation is a
documentary that is produced by HBO. The aim is to educate the general public
about the dangers of obesity, while providing healthy ways to lose and maintain
weight. HBO also provides resources for setting up screenings in different
cities and venues.
The purpose of the screening is to
raise awareness about the obesity epidemic, but to provide a forum where plans
for change can be fostered. The goal is to encourage student to step out in
their communities and to implement new strategies that will hopefully start to
lower the obesity rate in Colorado.
Josh
Skeggs, Riannon Atwater, and Cynthia Joseph were all introduced to this series
at a summer health program. Natalie Ta later joined the group after showing
great interest with the group’s work.
The Weight of the
Nation Screening will take place on February 8 at St. Cajetan’s. The event will
take place from 1-5 and will include some light refreshments.
If you would like more information about this
screening or you would like to get involved please contact Cynthia Joseph at cynthia.joseph@ucdenver.edu.