The Article in Brief

Obesity and Diabetes in Vulnerable Populations: Reflection on Proximal and Distal Causes

Lucy M. Candib, MD

Background Rates of obesity and diabetes are climbing to epidemic proportions around the world and across a variety of communities. Explanations that are limited to lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, are inadequate. This article looks at the many complex factors that contribute to obesity and diabetes.

What This Study Found Factors that contribute to the obesity/diabetes epidemic range from the genetic, cellular, biologic, and psychosocial levels to the social, historical, economic, and political. A broader view of obesity and diabetes that takes these multiple factors into account could lead to public health efforts that draw on the energy of a variety of forces.

Implications

• To prevent and treat obesity and diabetes in vulnerable populations, clinicians and researchers need to work at multiple levels, including community collaborations.