It is evident that obesity is a growing problem in the United States. The incidence of obesity across population groups has significantly increased over the last 20 years and has now become epidemic in both adults and children (Peters, 2006). Additional weight is a challenge on the body and contributes to various health problems, such as diabetes, hypertension, and foot problems (Roth & Townsend, 2003). Students attending colleges and universities are not immune to obesity. Young people coming to college and university campuses face many stressors--adjusting to life as an independent individual, achieving good grades, and developing new relationships.

This research project focuses on determining the incidence of obesity among students attending a small, liberal arts university. The researches reviewed the charts of students who had visited a university student health center, looking at various factors which include the following: height, weight, age, gender, race, academic year, and living environment.

Based on the finding of this initial project, the researches developed a model for a wellness program for college students. This wellness program focuses on interventions for weight reduction as well for the prevention of obesity. All students within the university have the potential of reaping the benefits from this research project.

References:

Peters, J. C. (2006). Social change and obesity prevention. In D. Klimis-Zacas (Ed.) Annual Editions: Nutrition 05/06. Dubuque, Iowa: McGraw/Dushkin

Roth, R. A. & Townsend, C. E. (2003). Nutrition & diet therapy. United States: Thomson Delmar Learning