ABSTRACT

This chapter defines obesity and discusses its relationship to disability, its prevalence, and etiology. It highlights teaching considerations, specific physical education adaptations, and curricular modifications for individuals who are considered overweight or obese. Interestingly, the majority of factors associated with obesity-related conditions are modifiable. Modifiable causes include increasing physical activity, decreasing sedentary behavior, changing eating habits. Non-modifiable causes also impact an individual's ability to manage her or his weight and become healthier and more active. The socioeconomic status (SES) of families can have a significant impact on obesity and obesity-related diseases. Although the SES of an individual or family may change over time, the impact of a child's SES correlates with what he or she will eat; therefore, SES is non-modifiable from the child's perspective. Genetic predisposition cannot be overcome by healthy eating, exercise, and good nutrition. In some cases, individuals may need medication to stabilize the cholesterol values in their bodies.