The American people need a multi-pronged approach involving government action, the medical community and management of environmental factors to successfully attack obesity obesity and lessen its threat to the health of our nation. Recent statistics show that nearly sixty million people in the United States are obese with a BMI over thirty. The number of obese people has doubled in the last twenty years (Perry 2). Although the word epidemic is generally associated with infectious diseases, the term epidemic is attributed to the rapid spread of obesity in our population (Robinson 1). Almost everyone knows that the reason for obesity is that people consume too many calories and get too little exercise. “For what is probably the first time in history, the lives of millions of people are in danger, not because they don't have enough to eat, but because they eat too much” (Perry 1). The United States government has respected and studied the country's obesity statistics and is initiating its course of action to eliminate childhood obesity, as well as adult obesity. They have suggested or instituted a growing number of interventions and regulations in this regard, as well as some federal laws. One such proposal is restricting the sale of sugary soda in public schools. Numerous studies have been conducted showing how sugary drinks influence weight gain. The government has recognized this by proposing special taxes on sugary drinks and suggesting the idea of ​​not allowing the sale of sugary drinks to food stamp recipients. ("Soda Tax") The federal government also mandated that food packages in grocery stores have ingredient labeling so consumers can know the calorie content as well as the proteins, carbohydrates, fats, sodium and others... .middle of paper......another area examined critically by Okie from---- "school meals, snacks, soda machines" to the role parents must play in making more positive changes for their children's choices of healthier foods and more physical activity (Hassink A 318). Obesity will not be an easy war to win. People will need to be informed about the health dangers of obesity and demand that the food industry change and offer healthier choices. People will need to send their message to their representatives in Congress to get the government's help in passing laws and regulations that protect their children and themselves. Parents and families must become advocates for a healthier environment. Only they can truly change the war on obesity in their favor. Governments and medicine are important partners, but the real warriors are the people themselves.