In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that 1.9 billion individuals over the age of 18 are overweight which comprises roughly one-third of the world population. Obesity is defined by the presence of abnormal or excessive fat which presents excessive risks to an individual’s health. Consequently, obesity is a risk factor for diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Health care professionals and world organization bodies, such as the WHO, highlight that obesity is preventable. As such, there has been significant research conducted to understand the causes of the pandemic.
