Final answer:
The current obesity epidemic began in the 1980s, marked by a society-wide shift towards more sedentary lifestyles and the availability of less healthy food options. As obesity rates soared, public health initiatives increasingly focused on promoting physical activity and healthier dietary choices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The obesity epidemic, which is linked to an increase in deaths from heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, began in earnest in the 1980s. Prior to this period, people were more physically active and had less access to calorie-dense foods.
Technological advancements and societal changes led to a more sedentary lifestyle and increased availability of fast and inexpensive meals, contributing to the rise in obesity rates.
As of the 1990s, less than 10 percent of populations in most states were obese; however, by 2010, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that nearly 36 percent of adults were obese, with an additional 33 percent being overweight.
Furthermore, childhood obesity rates have also been rising, indicating that this is a multi-generational issue. Several factors contribute to obesity, including overeating, a lack of physical activity, and the consumption of faster and cheaper meals that are often less healthy.
This trend has led to a greater focus on adopting healthier lifestyles, with an emphasis on regular exercise and consumption of healthy, whole foods as effective measures for weight management and overall wellness.