Final answer:
The hunger/obesity paradox refers to the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity in a population. Factors that contribute to this situation include socioeconomic factors, food deserts, food marketing, and urbanization/globalization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hunger/obesity paradox refers to the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity in a population. This paradox occurs when individuals or communities experience both inadequate access to nutritious food, leading to hunger and malnutrition, as well as an abundance of cheap, energy-dense food options that contribute to obesity.
Several factors contribute to the hunger/obesity paradox. These include:
- Socioeconomic factors: Poverty and low-income levels can limit access to nutritious foods, forcing individuals to rely on cheaper, less healthy options.
- Food deserts: Certain regions lack access to grocery stores or fresh food markets, making it difficult for residents to obtain healthy, affordable food.
- Food marketing: Aggressive marketing of unhealthy, calorie-dense foods can influence consumer choices and contribute to obesity.
- Urbanization and globalization: Rapid urbanization and globalization have led to changes in dietary patterns, with a shift towards highly processed and unhealthy food options.