Are obesity rates increasing in America?

Yes. The number of overweight adults and children in the United States is increasing at an alarming rate. The World Health Organization has described obesity as a "global epidemic," and studies find that more than 60 percent of American adults are overweight or obese.

Black American women are at particularly high risk. The American Heart Association estimates that approximately 77 percent of black American adult females are either overweight or obese.

Studies also find that black American women are 60 percent more likely to have metabolic syndrome than black American men. Metabolic syndrome is the occurrence of several conditions, such as obesity, insulin resistance and high blood pressure, at the same time. It greatly increases your risk of either type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

The rates of obesity and overweight are increasing in other racial and ethnic groups in America, as well.

Can children become obese?

Yes. Over the past 30 years, childhood obesity has tripled in America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 16 percent of children ages 6 to 19 are considered overweight.

Being obese is often difficult for children, both physically and emotionally. Children who are obese are not only at higher risk for medical problems, they often have low self-esteem and isolate themselves from peers.

Obesity becomes more than a food issue. It becomes a life issue. Lifestyle, emotions and family problems all play a role.