Key Determinants

Today's blog focuses on the key determinants. These are the factors associated with the development of the problem. In regards to my topic, obesity in children ages 2-19 in Michigan, there are a variety of key determinants.
Biological determinants are genetics. Many researchers say that genetics involve the parental diet, their eating habits and the lifestyle they live. But on the contrary, obesity is genetically inherited. There is still growing evidence that supports this claim. Just recently, in Czechoslovakia there was a study on a set of twins. The twins were both separated at birth and were placed with different foster families. After some odd years, researchers went and located the twins. Ironically enough both twins were "equally likely to be obese and have the same resting metabolic rate."
Social and cultural determinants could be the economic status of the family, personal beliefs, the people who influence these individuals such as friends or associates, and possibly religious beliefs. When it comes to the economic status of families, if the child comes from a poor family his/her obesity could be a result of lack of money and resources. Personal beliefs are a little difficult to prove because they tend to be "opinion" based rather than actual facts, but many people believe that they can eat whatever it is they want as long as they work out and exercise. In some cases, this is true and in other cases it is completely false. Depending on the person's metabolism and bone structure says a lot about their chances of being obese. Friends can either be a negative or positive determinant. I say both pos. and neg. because most friends like to look better than there other friends so they encourage you to "eat what you like" or give the "you only live once" line. Well they are right that "you only live once", but being obese decreases your chances of living longer.
Environmental determinants could be location of residence. Where people stay has a lot to do with the availability of resources. If a child lives in a high poverty area, there are high chances that he/she are not getting the proper nutrients and physical activity children need. Living in rural or urban areas also contribute to obesity. Children who live in rural areas don't always have access to certain foods that should be consumed on a daily basis.
A political determinant for this topic could be similar to one I read about online, in which i unfortunately cant find the article at this time, talks about the FDA approving a schools lunch menu. I think it was the state government that had decided to help with improving the health of students but didn't pass the law that would create healthier school lunches.
I'm not certain if this is an determinant, but I also think the mental state of most children also contributes to their health state. Many children, unfortunately, suffer from depression and eat until their bodies expand beyond their biological means. I'm not sure If all of these determinants will make it into my final paper or I may add a few new ones, but that is all for today's blog.

Until next time, stay healthy!

Kiara