Our Big Problem

Alabama has plenty of problems. There’s one problem, however, many of us can see every time we look in a mirror.

The below stories encompass an occasional series examining the spread of obesity and related health problems in Alabama, and the bigger questions facing our society as a result.
Just one of the South's favorite comfort-food combos: fried chicken and a biscuit, with 'taters and gravy on the side. (Anniston Star photo by Bill Wilson)
Southern culinary tradition one factor in obesity
There's a good reason the old TV show "Hee-Haw" always had a segment where offstage voices shouted "Hey, Grandpa, what's for supper?" Food is a rich portion of our culture — sometimes too rich.
Apr 09, 2012 |  0 comments | 14 14 recommendations | email to a friend
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How we know we're getting fatter: the numbers
“We believe it’s accurate because we see consistency from year to year,” said Sharon Reese, who directs a survey for the Alabama Department of Health.
Apr 08, 2012 |  0 comments | 9 9 recommendations | email to a friend
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Some states experiencing problems with obese residents, especially children, are taking action. In Georgia, a grim campaign employing black-and-white images depicts children whose parents have a choice to make — at least, that's the implication of the message, which has drawn strong criticism from some. (Photo via Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta)
Why Alabama can't keep the weight off
“People who are poor will buy high-calorie, high-energy food because it’s cheap,” said Tannista Banerjee, a health economist at Auburn University. “With $2 or $3 to spend, you can buy a meal that seems filling, but isn’t very healthy.”
Apr 08, 2012 |  0 comments | 18 18 recommendations | email to a friend
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‘Mom, why am I fat?’ Shock campaign has Alabama’s neighbor talking about weight
There’s a bare room with two folding chairs. A mother and her young son enter, sit down, and look at each other for an uncomfortably long time. Then the boy asks a question. “Mom, why am I fat?”
Apr 08, 2012 |  0 comments | 8 8 recommendations | email to a friend
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