In 2002 obesity among the poor climbed 147%, according to medicinenet.com. Those in the poverty level are the fastest growing group when it comes to obesity. Often the reasons they are obese are due to things largely out of their control. Obesity among the poor can be attributed to many things however the most common are lack of exercise, food choices and no access to health food stores or supermarkets.

Living in government assisted housing, commonly known as “projects” is something many of the impoverished live in everyday. The projects are home to gangs, shootings, and other more serious crimes. Many children and families report this as the number one reason they do not get out an exercise. Projects often do not have playgrounds, sidewalks or lawns where families or children can play. If there is a playground near by often it is a central meeting place for gangs and… Read More…