What are two strategies for preventing obesity?
The study, known as the Global Burden of Disease, analyzed data from 1990 to 2010. It found that the number of deaths related to obesity has more than doubled in that time. In 2010, approximately 3.4 million adults died as a result of being overweight. While high blood pressure remains the top risk factor for early death, the rise in body mass index (BMI) is now a close second. Health experts warn that the medical implications are severe, with links to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and various forms of cancer.
The text states the exact opposite or provides information that directly contradicts the prompt. A Weighty Issue Ielts Reading Answers
Explanation: Paragraph A states that every region is seeing an increase in obesity rates, "The only region that has successfully bucked this trend is Sub-Saharan Africa." To "buck the trend" means to go against it (in this case, not seeing an increase), but the statement says there has been a decrease , which is not claimed in the text. The text implies rates are not increasing, or malnutrition is the primary issue, but elsewhere implies the trend is rising globally. Wait, looking closer at Paragraph A: "every region... is seeing an increase... The only region that has successfully bucked this trend is Sub-Saharan Africa." Correction: If they "bucked the trend" of increasing rates, their rates did not increase. The statement says there was a decrease . The text does not say they decreased, only that they did not follow the rising trend (or that malnutrition is still the main issue). Therefore, we cannot say it is TRUE. Re-evaluation: Actually, usually "bucking the trend" of rising obesity implies rates are stable or low. The statement claims a decrease . Since the text doesn't explicitly say numbers went down, just that they didn't follow the rise, this is a tricky one. However, usually, in IELTS, if the text says "X is the only place not seeing an increase," and the question says "X saw a decrease," it is often FALSE (because "not increasing" includes staying the same) or NOT GIVEN . Let's look at the standard answer key for this specific text (which is adapted from a real report summary): The text says every region is seeing an increase . Sub-Saharan Africa bucked this trend . Trend = Increase. Bucked the trend = Did not increase. Statement = Decrease. Did not increase $\neq$ Decrease (It could be stable). Therefore, the statement contradicts the implication of "increase" or provides specific info not found. Self-Correction based on typical IELTS logic: If the text says "Obesity is rising everywhere," and then "Sub-Saharan Africa bucked the trend," it means it is not rising there. The statement says it decreased . Since "not rising" does not mean "decreasing," the information is not confirmed. However, usually, for a generic TRUE/FALSE, if the text says "Obesity is a bigger crisis than hunger globally," that is true. Let's stick to the clearest answers. Actually, let's adjust the answer key to be safe: Answer: NOT GIVEN . (The text says they "bucked the trend" of increase, meaning they did not go up. It does not confirm if they went down).
High-calorie, processed foods are often cheaper and more accessible than nutrient-dense, healthy alternatives. 🔍 Detailed Question Analysis & Explanations What are two strategies for preventing obesity
Obesity has become a global health crisis, affecting over 650 million adults worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Often termed a “weighty issue” both literally and figuratively, it carries significant implications for public health systems, economies, and individual well-being. While genetics play a role, environmental and behavioral factors—such as poor diet and sedentary lifestyles—are primary drivers.
A statement is only if the text explicitly supports it, and FALSE if the text directly contradicts it. If the text mentions that a strategy is being debated , but the question states it has been proven effective , the answer is NOT GIVEN because the text does not provide information regarding its definitive success. Manage Your Time (Skim and Scan) Do not read every word of "A Weighty Issue" linearly. Read the title and subtitles to grab the context. In 2010, approximately 3
In response, some countries have introduced public health policies. For instance, the UK implemented a sugar tax on soft drinks in 2018. Early data suggests a 30% reduction in sugar content in beverages and a decline in obesity rates among younger populations. Similarly, Japan mandates waist measurements for citizens aged 40–74, with companies fined if employees exceed government-set limits—a controversial yet effective measure.
Equity must be central to any strategy. Policies that reduce the cost or increase the convenience of healthy foods disproportionately benefit low-income households and can narrow health disparities. Conversely, poorly designed measures—such as regressive taxes without compensatory subsidies—may burden those least able to pay. Meaningful engagement with affected communities in program design increases acceptability and effectiveness.