Mathematical Modeling on the Obesity Dynamics in the Southeastern Region and the Effect of Intervention

Abstract

Overweight and obesity has been a major health problem in the United States. The severity is highest in the southeastern region. Social contagion is a significant factor for the progression of the obesity and its identification and control may lead to effective planning in the intervention of the obesity epidemic. In this paper, we devise a SIR model that capture the current dynamics of obesity in the southeastern region of the United States. We discuss the spread of obesity among friends and relatives through social network. With the help of the mathematical model, we discuss the effectiveness of the current intervention programs to control the obesity. We also purpose some affirmative actions to the public health policy makers, the city planning authority, and the community itself that could minimize and even reverse the pattern of obesity.