BACKGROUND
The rise in obesity rates presents a grave public health challenge, surpassing even tobacco as the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Much like other forms of substance use disorder, food addiction is a complex, multi-faceted disease involving a number of neurobiological factors associated with addiction, endocrine response, and social-psychological determinants. These interconnected and often competing systems add to the difficulty of treatment.
OBJECTIVE
This article explores the complex neuro-endocrine interplay involved in obesity, the parallels to substance addiction, and the societal factors exacerbating the obesity epidemic.
METHODS
This study employed a non-systematic literature review across various disciplines, including medicine, public health, addiction, neuroscience, psychology, sociology, criminology, public policy, and social networks. Relevant databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus were searched using keywords related to obesity and its multifaceted implications. Data extraction focused on obesity-related health outcomes, societal impacts, and intervention strategies. The synthesis of findings aimed to aggregate insights from the diverse fields to present a holistic understanding of obesity's complexity.
RESULTS
Research has revealed important findings within many diverse disciplines, but few efforts have taken a multi-disciplinary approach. Given the significant interactions across complex biological and societal systems, obesity requires a holistic treatment approach.
CONCLUSIONS
Given the elevated rates of obesity and its severe impact on both the quality and longevity of life, we argue for more targeted funding and a cross-disciplinary approach to achieve multifaceted, affordable, and equitable health solutions.
CLINICALTRIAL
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