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Acute:
A health effect that is brief, intense and short term, as opposed to chronic. [IOM]
Added sugars:
Sugars and syrups that are added to foods during processing or preparation. Added sugars do not include naturally occurring sugars such as those that occur in milk and fruits. [USDA]
African American (or Black):
A person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa. (See also Race.) Note: U.S. Government agencies and population surveys use the terms “black” and “non-Hispanic black”. [OMB]
Alaska Native:
(See American Indian or Alaska Native.)
Alcohol:
Ethyl alcohol, or ethanol, is an intoxicating ingredient found in beer, wine and liquor, and is produced by the fermentation of yeast, sugars and starches. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, and affects every organ in the body, slowing reaction time and impairing judgment and coordination. [CDC]
Alcohol abuse:
A pattern of drinking that results in harm to one’s health, interpersonal relationships or ability to work. Manifestations include:
- failure to fulfill major responsibilities at work, school, or home;
- drinking in dangerous situations, such as while driving or operating machinery;
- legal problems related to alcohol, such as being arrested for drinking while driving or for physically injuring someone while drunk; and,
- continued drinking despite ongoing relationship problems that are caused or worsened by drinking.
Alcohol abuse can be just as harmful as alcohol dependence. A person can abuse alcohol without actually being an alcoholic--that is, he or she may drink too much and/or too often, but still not be dependent on alcohol. [CDC]
Alcohol dependence:
Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to alcohol dependence, a chronic disease also known as alcohol addiction and alcoholism. The signs and symptoms of alcohol dependence include:
- craving: a strong need, or urge, to drink;
- loss of control: not being able to stop drinking once drinking as begun, despite personal injury or harm, including repeated physical, psychological or interpersonal problems;
- physical dependence: withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness and anxiety after stopping drinking; and,
- tolerance: the need to drink increasing amounts of alcohol to feel its effects.
Alcohol poisoning:
A medical emergency that results from high blood alcohol levels that suppress the central nervous system and can cause loss of consciousness, low blood pressure and body temperature, coma, respiratory depression and death.
Alcoholic hepatitis:
Inflammation of the liver, which can progress to cirrhosis.
American Indian or Alaska Native (AIAN):
A racial category referring to a person having origins in any of the original peoples of North and South America (including Central America), and who maintains cultural identification through tribal affiliations or community attachment. (See also Race.) [OMB]
Antioxidant:
A special group of vitamins, minerals and other compounds that counteract the damage done to cells by oxidation. Oxidation is thought to be partially responsible for the effects on aging and for certain diseases. [HCCP/HSPH]
Asian:
A racial category referring to a person having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, including, for example, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippine Islands, Thailand and Vietnam. (See also Race.) [OMB]
Balanced diet :
The overall dietary pattern of foods consumed that provides all the essential nutrients in the appropriate amounts to support life processes, including growth & development in children without promoting excess body fat accumulation and excess weight gain. [IOM]
Basic food groups:
In USDA food intake patterns, the basic food groups are: 1) grains; 2) fruits; 3) vegetables; 4) milk, yogurt & cheese; and, 5) meat, poultry, fish, dried peas & beans, eggs and nuts. [USDA]
Black (or African American):
A racial category referring to a person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa. (See also Race.) Note: U.S. Government agencies and population surveys use the terms “black” and “non-Hispanic black”. [OMB]
Blood pressure:
The force of blood pushing against the walls of arteries; varies throughout the day. When it stays too high over time, it’s called high blood pressure (HBP) or hypertension. [AHA] (See also Blood pressure, High.)
Blood pressure, Diastolic:
The second or bottom number of a blood pressure reading; the pressure between heartbeats when the heart relaxes. [AHA, NHLBI]
Blood pressure, High (or hypertension):
Defined in adults as a systolic pressure of 140 mmHg or higher, or, a diastolic pressure of 90 mmHg or higher, for an extended time. With high blood pressure, your heart works harder, your arteries take a beating, and your chances of a stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems increase. [AHA, WIN]
Blood pressure, Systolic:
The first or upper number of a blood pressure reading; the pressure of blood in the vessels when the heart beats. [AHA, NHLBI]
Blood sugar, High:
A condition in which the glucose (sugar) level in the blood reaches levels higher than normal. Often a sign of diabetes or pre-diabetes. [HCCP/HSPH]
Body mass index (BMI):
A measure of a person's weight in relation to their height; a practical, indirect measure of body fat. Commonly used to screen for overweight and obesity, which are associated with disease, disability and premature death.
A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy. A person with a BMI of 25.0 to 29.9 is considered overweight, and a person with a BMI of 30.0 or more is considered obese. Note: it is important to remember that, although BMI correlates with the amount of body fat, BMI does not directly measure body fat. As a result, some people, such as athletes, may have a BMI that identifies them as overweight even though they do not have excess body fat. [USDA, WIN]
BMI = weight in pounds x 703 / height in inches x height in inches.
Bone mass:
The amount of calcium in a given amount of bone.
Bone mineral density test:
Similar to an X-ray of your bones. Commonly used to measure bone strength and to determine a person's risk for osteoporosis.
BRFSS (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System):
A state-based telephone survey conducted by state health departments with assistance from the CDC; the largest continuously conducted telephone survey in the world, with approximately 250,000 adult interviews completed each year. The survey has been a unique source of data for health risk behaviors, chronic disease conditions, and the use of preventive health services for states since 1984. The BRFSS is conducted in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. [CDC]
Calcium:
A very important mineral with many functions, including the building and maintaining of bone. Good sources include dairy products like milk and yogurt, calcium-fortified foods like fortified orange juice, and calcium supplements. [HCCP/HSPH]
Calorie:
A unit of measure for energy obtained from food and beverages (3,500 kilocalories of food energy = 1 pound of body weight). Carbohydrates and proteins have 4 calories per gram, fat has 9 calories per gram, and alcohol has 7 calories per gram. Also the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 gram (g) of water 1º C (1000 calories = 1 kilocalorie). An interesting fact: when we see “calories” on a food label, it is actually measuring kilocalories. [CDC, IOM, WIN]
Cancer:
A general name for a large group of diseases. Cancer occurs when cells in the body grow and divide out of control. [HCCP/HSPH]
Carbohydrate:
A major source of energy in the diet. There are two kinds of carbohydrates: simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates are sugars, and complex carbohydrates include both starches and fiber. Carbohydrates have 4 calories per gram. They are found naturally in foods such as breads, pasta, cereals, fruits, vegetables, and milk and dairy products. Foods such as sugary cereals, soft drinks, fruit drinks, fruit punch, lemonade, cakes, cookies, pies, ice cream, and candy are very high in sugars. [WIN]
Carcinogenic:
Causing cancer in humans and/or animals.
Cholesterol (or blood cholesterol):
A soft, fat-like, waxy substance, that is carried through the blood in small units called lipoproteins. Cholesterol is an important part of a healthy body because it's used for producing cell membranes and some hormones and vitamins, and serves other needed bodily functions. When cholesterol levels are too high, some of the cholesterol is deposited on the walls of the blood vessels. Over time, the deposits can build up and cause the blood vessels to narrow, and blood flow to decrease. The cholesterol in food, like saturated fat, tends to raise blood cholesterol, which increases the risk for coronary heart disease and stroke. Total blood cholesterol levels above 240 mg/dL are considered high. Levels between 200 and 238 mg/dL are considered borderline high. Levels under 200 mg/dL are considered desirable. [AHA, WIN]
Cholesterol, Dietary:
The body produces most cholesterol naturally, based on heredity; the rest comes from cholesterol in animal products that you eat, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products like butter, cheese and whole milk. Foods high in cholesterol include organ meats, egg yolks, and dairy fats. Plant foods, such as grains, fruits and vegetables, and oils from these sources, do not contain cholesterol. Some foods that don't contain animal products may contain trans fats, which cause your body to make more cholesterol. Foods with saturated fats also cause the body to make more cholesterol. [AHA, USDA]
Cholesterol, HDL:
High-density lipoprotein (HDL, or "good" cholesterol); helps remove cholesterol from the blood, helping to keep cholesterol from building up in the walls of the arteries. An HDL cholesterol level < 40 mg/dL is a major risk factor for heart disease. Conversely, an HDL cholesterol level of 60 mg/dL or higher reduces your risk of heart attack. [HCCP/HSPH]
Cholesterol, High:
A leading risk factor for coronary heart disease. Excess cholesterol in the bloodstream can form plaque (a thick, hard deposit) in artery walls. The cholesterol or plaque build-up causes arteries to become thicker, harder and less flexible, slowing down and sometimes blocking blood flow to the heart.
Cholesterol, LDL:
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad" cholesterol). A unit made up of proteins and fats that carry cholesterol in the body. High levels of LDL cholesterol increase the build-up of fat and cholesterol on artery walls, blocking the flow of blood to the heart or brain (atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries), and increasing the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. LDL levels below 100 mg/dL are considered optimal. [HCCP/HSPH, WIN]
Cholesterol, Serum:
Travels in the blood in distinct particles containing both lipids and proteins. Three major classes of lipoproteins are found in the serum of a fasting individual: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). [USDA]
Cholesterol, Total:
Also known as "blood cholesterol", total cholesterol is the sum of all the cholesterol in your blood. High blood cholesterol has been associated with hardening of the arteries, heart disease and an increased risk of death from heart attacks. A person whose blood cholesterol is 240 mg/dL or higher has more than twice the risk of heart disease when compared to someone whose cholesterol level is under 200 mg/dL.
Chronic:
A health effect that develops slowly and persists for a long period of time, as opposed to acute. (See also Disease, Chronic.) [IOM]
Cirrhosis:
Scarring or damage to liver cells; often leads to complete liver failure. Cirrhosis is among the 15 leading causes of death in the United States.
Colon:
The longest part of the large intestine. [HCCP/HSPH]
Colonoscopy:
An exam in which a tube is inserted in the rectum to view the entire colon through a flexible, lighted instrument (colonoscope) for signs of cancer or other health problems. The doctor may also collect samples of tissue or cells for closer examination, or remove polyps during a colonscopy. [HCCP/HSPH]
Cost, Direct:
Dollars spent on health services. Direct costs include out-of-pocket payments, medical insurance benefits, disability payments, and workers' compensation losses. [USPSTF]
Cost, Indirect:
Expenses associated with an illness, condition or disorder that are not immediately related to treatment. These non-medical expenditures include lost wages, lost workdays, costs related to using replacement workers, overtime premiums, productivity losses related to unscheduled absences, and productivity losses of workers while on the job. [USPSTF]
Culture:
The values, norms, beliefs, attitudes, traditions, and customs shared by a group of people who are unified by race, ethnicity, language, faith, nationality, or life experience. [IOM]
Death rate (or mortality rate):
A ratio between mortality and population; a measure of the frequency with which death occurs in a defined population during a specified interval of time. National death rates are computed per 100,000 population. The year 2000 is the base year that the federal government and health organizations currently use for age adjustment. [AHA, CDC]
Death rate, Age-adjusted:
A death rate that is statistically modified to eliminate the effect of different age distributions in different populations. [CDC]
Death rate, Age-specific:
A death rate that is limited to a particular age group. The numerator is the number of deaths in that age group; the denominator is the number of persons in that age group in the population. [CDC]
Death rate, Cause-specific:
The death rate from a specified cause for a population. The numerator is the number of deaths attributed to a specific cause during a specified time interval; the denominator is the size of the population at the midpoint of the time interval. [CDC]
Death rate, Crude:
The death rate from all causes of death for a population. Dividing the mortality by the population gives a crude death rate, which is limited since it does not reflect that population’s composition with respect to demographic characteristics (e.g. age, sex, race, ethnicity). Rates calculated within specific subgroups, such as age-specific or sex-specific rates, are often more meaningful and informative. [AHA]
Death rate, Race-specific:
A death rate limited to a specified racial group. Both numerator and denominator are limited to that specified group. [CDC]
Death rate, Sex-specific:
A death rate among either males or females. [CDC]
Demographic data:
The "person" characteristics -- age, sex, race, ethnicity, education, occupation, etc. -- used to describe a population. [CDC]
Diabetes:
A disease that occurs when the body is not able to use blood glucose (sugar). Blood sugar levels are controlled by insulin, a hormone that helps move glucose from the blood to muscles and other tissues. Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make enough insulin, or the body does not respond to the insulin that is made. High blood sugar levels can lead to many complications, like nerve and blood vessel damage, coronary heart disease, amputations, blindness and kidney damage. (See also Diabetes, Type 1 and Diabetes, Type 2.) [HCCP/HSPH, WIN]
Diabetes, Type 1:
Previously known as "insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" or "juvenile diabetes", type 1 diabetes is a life-long condition in which the pancreas stops making insulin. Without insulin, the body is not able to use glucose (blood sugar) for energy. To treat the disease a person must inject insulin, follow a specific eating plan, exercise daily and test their blood sugar several times a day. Type 1 diabetes usually, but not always, begins before the age of 30. [WIN]
Diabetes, Type 2:
Previously known as "non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" or "adult-onset diabetes", type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes mellitus. About 90% to 95% of people who have diabetes have type 2. People with type 2 diabetes produce insulin, but either do not make enough insulin, or their bodies do not efficiently use the insulin they make. Most people who have this type of diabetes are overweight, and may be able to control their condition by losing weight through diet and exercise. They may also need to inject insulin or take medicine, along with continuing to follow a healthy program of diet and exercise. Although type 2 diabetes commonly occurs in adults, an increasing number of children and adolescents who are overweight are also developing type 2 diabetes. [WIN]
Diet:
What a person eats and drinks. Any type of eating plan. [WIN]
Dietary Guidelines for Americans:
A federal summary of the latest dietary guidance for the American public, based on current scientific evidence and medical knowledge. The Guidelines are issued jointly by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and are revised every five years. [IOM]
The Dietary Guidelines 2005 describe a healthy diet as one that:
- emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free of low-fat milk and milk products;
- includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts; and,
- is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars.
Disease (or illness, sickness, ailment):
A disorder or incorrectly functioning organ, part, structure or system of the body, resulting from the effect of genetic or developmental errors, infection, poisons, nutritional deficiency or imbalance, toxicity, or unfavorable environmental factors. [HHS]
Disease, Cardiovascular:
A disease of the heart or blood vessels (arteries, capillaries, veins) anywhere in the body, such as the brain, legs and lungs. [USDA]
Disease, Cause of:
A factor (characteristic, behavior, event, etc.) that directly influences the occurrence of disease. A reduction of the factor in the population should lead to a reduction in the occurrence of the disease. [CDC]
Disease, Chronic:
An ongoing, generally incurable illness or condition that develops and lasts over a long period of time, such as cancer, depression, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, osteoporosis and stroke. These diseases are often preventable, and frequently manageable through early detection, improved diet, exercise, and treatment therapy. [HCCP/HSPH, PFCD, USDA]
Disease, Coronary:
A narrowing of the small blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart (coronary arteries). [USDA]
Disease, Coronary heart:
The most common form of heart disease; often referred to simply as "heart disease". A disorder of the blood vessels of the heart that occurs when the buildup of cholesterol and fat in the arteries cause them to become too narrow and blocks the flow of blood, potentially leading to a heart attack. [HCCP/HSPH, NHLBI]
Disease, Heart:
A general term that refers to a variety of acute and chronic medical conditions that affect one of more of the components of the heart. The blood that the heart moves carries oxygen and nutrients throughout the body and transports carbon dioxide and other wastes away. Anything that damages the heart, makes it less efficient, reduces its ability to fill and pump, or decreases the heart's supply of oxygen, will disrupt the coordinated relationship between the heart, kidneys and blood vessels, and will harm not only the heart but the rest of the body as well. [Lab Tests Online]
Drink, Alcohol:
A standard “drink” in the United States is any drink that contains about ½ ounce (1.2 tablespoons) of pure alcohol. It is equivalent to:
- 12 ounces of beer or wine cooler;
- 8 ounces of malt liquor;
- 5 ounces of wine; or,
- 1.5 ounces (a "shot") of brandy or "hard liquor" (gin, rum, vodka, whiskey).
Drinking, Binge:
A pattern of alcohol consumption that brings a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level to 0.08% or above. This pattern of drinking usually corresponds to:
- women: more than 3 drinks during a single occasion; or,
- men: more than 4 drinks during a single occasion,
generally within about 2 hours. Most people who binge drink are not alcohol dependent. [CDC]
Drinking, Excessive:
Includes heavy drinking, binge drinking or both. Excessive drinking is associated with significant increases in short-term risks to health and safety, and the risk increases as the amount of drinking increases. [CDC]
Drinking, Heavy:
Heavy drinking is defined as more than 1 drink per day on average for women, and more than 2 drinks per day on average for men. Almost all people with alcohol-use disorders report drinking 5 or more drinks in a day (for men), or 4 or more (for women), at least occasionally. The risk for alcohol-related problems rises with the number of heavy drinking days, although some problems, such as driving while intoxicated, can occur with a single occasion. All heavy drinkers have a greater risk of hypertension, gastrointestinal bleeding, sleep disorders, major depression, stroke, cirrhosis of the liver, and several cancers. [CDC]
Drinking, Moderate:
No more than 1 drink per day for women, and no more than 2 drinks per day for men. Moderate drinking has been associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease. However, achieving a balance between the risks and benefits of alcohol consumption is difficult, since each person has a different susceptibility to diseases potentially caused or prevented by alcohol. Most experts don't recommend advising non-drinking patients to begin drinking to reduce their cardiovascular risk. [USDA Dietary Guidelines]
Drinking, Problem:
Drinking is considered a problem if it causes trouble in a person’s relationships, or in school, work, or social activities, or in how s/he thinks and feels.
Energy balance:
A state where calorie intake is equivalent to energy expenditure, resulting in no net weight gain or weight loss. [IOM]
Energy density:
The number of calories stored in a given food per unit volume or mass. Fat stores 9 kcal/g (kilocalories per gram); alcohol stores 7 kcal/g; carbohydrate and protein both store 4 kcal/g; and, fiber stores 1.5 to 2.5 kcal/g. Foods that are almost entirely composed of fat with minimal water (e.g. butter) are more calorie dense than foods that consist largely of water, fiber, and carbohydrates (e.g. fruits and vegetables). [IOM]
Energy expenditure:
The amount of energy, measured in calories, that a person uses. Calories are used to breathe, circulate blood, digest food, maintain posture, and for growth and physical activity. [WIN]
Energy intake:
Calories ingested as foods and beverages. [IOM]
Environment:
The aggregate of social and cultural conditions that influence the life of an individual or community. [IOM]
Ethnicity:
The definition of ethnicity for U.S. federal government purposes is divided into "Hispanic or Latino" and "Not Hispanic or Latino", and is the only ethnicity defined for government purposes. The category "Hispanic or Latino" includes major subgroups such as Mexican Americans (the largest subgroup of Hispanics at approximately 66%), Puerto Ricans (island and continental), Cuban Americans, and Central and South Americans. Because Hispanics can be of any race, data are often presented for three categories of race/ethnicity: non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks, and Hispanics. [OMB]
Exercise:
Physical activity that is planned or structured. It involves repetitive bodily movement done to improve or maintain one or more of the components of physical fitness: cardiorespiratory endurance (aerobic fitness), muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility and body composition. [CDC]
Exercise, Aerobic (or cardiovascular or cardiorespiratory exercise):
Moves large muscle groups; causes you to breathe more deeply, and your heart to work harder to pump blood, improving the health of your heart and lungs. Examples include walking, jogging, running, aerobic dance, bicycling, rowing, swimming and cross-country skiing.
Exercise, Resistance:
Anaerobic training, including weight training, weight machine use, and resistance band workouts. Resistance training will increase strength, muscular endurance, and muscle size, while running and jogging will not. [USDA]
Exercise, Strength-training (resistance or weight training):
Can help prevent injuries, reduce stress and fight osteoporosis by helping to improve and maintain muscle strength and endurance, prevent muscle loss with age, maintain the integrity of your bones, and improve balance, coordination and mobility. Examples include push ups, lifting weights, working with barbells or resistance bands, and chores in and around the house and yard, especially those requiring lifting. [CDC]
Exercise, Stretching:
Helps improve and maintain flexibility and range of motion; also promotes better posture, improves circulation and helps relieve stress. Examples include static stretching, yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Qi Gong.
Exercise, Weight-bearing:
Exercises that work against the force of gravity (e.g. walking, jumping, jogging, hiking, climbing stairs, dancing & weight training)—important for building strong bones—and may help prevent osteoporosis and bone fractures later in life.
Family medical history:
Shows the patterns of disease in a family from one generation to the next. Immediate family or first-degree relatives include your biological mother, father, full siblings, and children; second-degree relatives include grandparents, aunts and uncles, and grandchildren. Family medical histories often cover at least three generations, including grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles, siblings, and other blood relatives. Note: A family medical history excludes relatives by marriage or adoption (i.e. includes your mother’s sister, but not your mother’s sister’s husband, or others with no blood ties, such as adopted family members).
Fast food:
Foods and meals designed for ready availability, use or consumption, and sold at eating establishments for quick availability or take-out. [IOM]
Fasting plasma glucose:
A blood test used to evaluate blood sugar levels to diagnose or screen for diabetes, and to monitor control in patients with diabetes; also called a glucose screen, or a blood sugar or blood glucose test.
Fats:
A major source of energy in the diet. All food fats have 9 calories per gram. Fat helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E and K. Some kinds of fats, especially saturated fats and trans fats, may raise blood cholesterol and increase the risk for heart disease. Other fats, such as unsaturated fats, do not raise blood cholesterol. Fats that are in foods are combinations of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fatty acids. [WIN]
Fats, Monounsaturated (or monounsaturated fatty acids; MUFAs):
A type of unsaturated fat, monounsaturated fats help to lower blood cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease if used in place of saturated fats. Healthy sources include avocados, olives, nuts and seeds, as well as olive, peanut, sesame and canola oils, that are liquid at room temperature. Like all fats, monounsaturated fats are high in calories. [HCCP/HSPH, USDA, WIN]
Fats, Polyunsaturated (or polyunsaturated fatty acids; PUFAs):
A highly unsaturated fat that is liquid at room temperature, polyunsaturated fats help improve cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. Major sources include nuts and seeds, oil-based salad dressing and fatty fish, and safflower, sesame, sunflower, corn and soybean oils. Like all fats, polyunsaturated fats are high in calories. [HCCP/HSPH, WIN]
Fats, Saturated (or saturated fatty acids):
A fat that is solid at room temperature, saturated fats can raise blood cholesterol levels and have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Saturated fats come primarily from animal products such as meat and high-fat dairy products like cheese, butter, whole milk, cream, and regular ice cream; also present in the skin and fat of chicken and turkey, lard, and tropical coconut and palm oils. [HCCP/HSPH, USDA, WIN]
Fats, Trans (or trans fatty acids):
A fat that is produced when liquid fat (oil) is turned into solid fat through a chemical process called hydrogenation. Trans fats increase the risk of heart disease by both raising LDL ("bad") cholesterol and lowering HDL ("good") cholesterol. Sources include hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils that are used to make shortening and commercially baked goods, snack foods, fried foods and margarine. (Trans fats are often listed as "hydrogenated" or "partially hydrogenated" oils on food packages.) Trans fats are also present in foods that come from ruminant animals (cattle & sheep), and include dairy products, beef and lamb. [HCCP/HSPH, USDA, WIN]
Fats, Unsaturated:
A fat that is liquid at room temperature; includes polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats can improve blood cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. Healthy sources include oil-based salad dressing, most nuts, olives, avocados, and fatty fish (e.g. salmon), as well as olive, canola, safflower, sunflower, corn and soybean oils. Use unsaturated oils instead of fats with a high saturated or trans fat content, such as butter, lard or hydrogenated shortenings. Like all fats, unsaturated fats are high in calories. [AHA, HCCP/HSPH, WIN]
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome:
A congenital syndrome caused by intrauterine exposure to alcohol. Characteristics include intra and extra uterine growth retardation, microcephaly (small head), and mental retardation.
Fiber, Dietary:
Typically refers to non-digestible carbohydrates from plant foods. [USDA]
Fitness, Cardiorespiratory (or aerobic fitness):
The ability of the body's circulatory and respiratory systems to supply fuel and oxygen during sustained physical activity. [CDC]
Food group, Fruits:
Any fruit or 100% fruit juice (orange, apple, grape, grapefruit, etc.) counts as part of the fruit group. Fruits may be fresh, canned, frozen or dried, and may be whole, cut up or pureed. Some common fruits include apples, apricots, avocado, bananas, berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, etc.), grapefruit, grapes, kiwi fruit, lemons, limes, mangoes, melons (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon), nectarines, oranges, peaches, pears, papaya, pineapple, plums, prunes, raisins and tangerines. [USDA]
Food group, Grains:
A grain product is any food made from wheat, rice, oats, cornmeal, barley or another cereal grain. Examples of grain products include bread, pasta, oatmeal, breakfast cereals, tortillas and grits. There are two subgroups of grains: whole grains and refined grains. [USDA]
Food group, Meats & beans:
All foods made from meat, fish, poultry, dry beans or peas, eggs, nuts and seeds are considered part of this group. Some examples include meats (beef, ham, lamb, pork & veal), game meats (bison, rabbit & venison), and organ meats (liver & giblets); chicken, duck, goose, turkey and eggs; dry beans & peas* (see Legumes); fish (catfish, cod, flounder, haddock, halibut, herring, mackeral, salmon, sea bass, snapper, swordfish, trout & tuna) and shellfish (anchovies, clams, crab, crayfish, lobster, mussels, octopus, oysters, sardines, scallops, squid & shrimp); nuts & seeds (almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, peantus, peanut butter, pecans, psitachios, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, walnuts). *Note: Dry beans and peas are part of this group, as well as the Vegetables Group. [USDA]
Food group, Milk & milk products:
All fluid milk products, and many foods made from milk, are considered part of the "milk" food group. Note: foods made from milk that retain their calcium content are part of this group, while foods made from milk that have little or no calcium (cream cheese, cream and butter) are not. Some examples of this food group include milk (whole, 2% reduced fat, 1% low fat, fat free/skim, lactose free, etc.), cheese (hard cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss & parmesan; soft cheeses like ricotta and cottage cheese; and processed cheeses like American cheese), yogurt (whole milk yogurt, reduced fat, low fat and fat free), and milk-based desserts such as puddings made with milk, ice milk, frozen yogurt and ice cream. [USDA]
Food group, Vegetables:
Any vegetable or 100% vegetable juice counts as a member of the vegetable group. Vegetables may be raw or cooked; fresh, frozen, canned, or dried/dehydrated; and may be whole, cut up or mashed. Vegetables are organized into five subgroups, based on their nutrient content: dark green vegetables, orange vegetables, dry beans & peas, starchy vegetables, and other vegetables. [USDA]
Food Guide Pyramid:
Revised by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 2005, the Food Guide Pyramid was renamed "My Pyramid, Steps to a Healthier You," and includes dietary recommendations for the general public over 2 years of age. It includes the recommended daily servings of grains, fruits, vegetables, milk, meats, beans, fats, sugars, salt and physical activity.
Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value (FMNV):
Food items providing less than 5% of the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowances for eight specified nutrients per serving.
Glucose:
A building block for most carbohydrates. Disgestion causes some carbohydrates to break down into glucose. After digestion, glucose is carried in the blood and goes to body cells where it is used for energy or stored. [WIN]
Grains, Enriched:
Most refined grains are enriched, meaning that certain B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid) and iron are added back after processing. Fiber, however, is not added back. Check the ingredient list on refined grain products to make sure the word "enriched" is included in the grain name. Some food products are made from a mixture of whole grains and refined grains. [USDA]
Grains, Refined:
Refined grains have been milled, a process that removes the bran and germ, giving grains a finer texture and improved shelf life. Milling, however, also removes dietary fiber, iron and many B vitamins. Examples of refined grain products include white flour, degermed cornmeal, white bread, and white rice. (See also Grains, Enriched.) [USDA]
Grains, Whole:
"Whole" grains contain the entire grain kernel: the bran, germ and endosperm. If the kernel has been cracked, crushed or flaked, it must retain nearly the same relative proportions of bran, germ and endosperm as the original grain in order to be called "whole" grain. Examples include whole-wheat flour, buckwheat, bulgur (cracked wheat), oatmeal, popcorn, whole cornmeal (or oats, rye, wheat, etc.), brown rice and wild rice. Be sure to look for the word “whole” before the name of the grain on the list of ingredients for the product. Please note that "multi-grain", "stone-ground", "100% wheat", "seven-grain" or "bran" are usually NOT whole-grain products. The FDA requires food that bears the whole-grain health claim to contain 51% or more whole-grain ingredients by weight per reference amount, and to be low in fat. [USDA]
Health:
A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. [IOM]
Health disparities:
The population-specific differences in the presence of disease, health outcomes, or access to health care, across racial, ethnic and different socioeconomic groups. [IOM]
Health outcomes:
Changes made by individuals or populations that either reduce or increase their risk of developing specific health conditions. [IOM]
Health promotion:
Any prevention initiative aimed at changing lifestyle behaviors associated with greater risk of disease. These initiatives actively encourage healthy activities such as weight management, smoking cessation, physical activity, etc. [USPSTF]
Healthful diet:
A diet consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, and reduces the long-term risk for obesity and related chronic diseases. [IOM]
Healthy People 2010 (or HP 2010):
The prevention agenda for the Nation for the first decade of the new century, HP 2010 is a statement of national health objectives designed to identify the most significant preventable threats to health, and to establish national goals to reduce these threats. [CDC]
High-density lipoprotein (HDL):
(See Cholesterol, HDL.)
Hispanic or Latino:
In U.S. government statistics, “Hispanic” includes persons who trace their ancestry to Spanish-speaking countries—Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Spain, the Spanish-speaking countries of Central and South America, the Dominican Republic, or other Spanish cultures—regardless of race. It does not include people from countries where Spanish is not the first language, such as Brazil, Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad, Belize and Portugal. Note: The term "Hispanic" is commonly used in the eastern portion of the United States, whereas "Latino" is commonly used in the western portion. [OMB]
Hydrogenation:
A chemical reaction that adds hydrogen atoms to an unsaturated liquid fat (oil), thus "saturating" it and making it into a solid fat. [USDA]
Hypertension:
(See Blood pressure, High.)
Hypertension, Primary (or essential hypertension):
When the cause of the high blood pressure is not known (idiopathic). [AHA]
Hypertension, Secondary:
High blood pressure that is due to an identifiable underlying condition, such as kidney or thyroid disease, pregnancy, diabetes, etc. [AHA]
ICD codes:
The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is published by the World Health Organization (WHO), and is reviewed and revised every 10-20 years to reflect changes over time in medical technology, diagnosis and terminology. ICD-9, the 9th revision, is used for hospital discharge data; the 10th revision (ICD-10) is used for mortality data, effective 1999.
Incidence:
An estimate of the number of new cases of a particular disease or condition that develop in a population in a one-year period. Incidence is commonly measured in new cases per 1,000 (or 100,000) of population at risk per year. [AHA, IOM]
Incidence rate:
A measure of the frequency with which an event, such as a new case of illness, occurs in a population over a period of time. The numerator is the number of new cases occurring during a given time period; the denominator is the population at risk. [CDC]
Insulin:
A hormone made by the pancreas that helps move glucose (sugar) from the blood to muscles and other tissues. Insulin controls blood sugar levels. [WIN]
Junk food:
Foods that provide calories primarily through fats or added sugars and have minimal amounts of vitamins and minerals.
Kilocalorie:
The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 kilogram (kg) of water 1º C. Kilocalorie is the ordinary calorie discussed in food or exercise energy-expenditure tables and food labels. [CDC]
Latino:
(See Hispanic or Latino.)
Legumes (dry beans & peas):
Examples of dry beans & peas include black beans, black-eyed peas, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), kidney beans, lentils, lima beans, navy beans, pinto beans, soy beans and split peas. Note: Dry beans and peas are part of the Vegetables Group, as well as the Meat & Beans Group. [USDA]
Lipid profile:
A group of blood tests often ordered together to determine risk of coronary heart disease. The tests that make up a lipid profile are tests that have been shown to be good indicators of whether someone is likely to have a heart attack or stroke caused by blockage of blood vessels. The profile includes total cholesterol (TC), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C, the “good” cholesterol), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C, the “bad” cholesterol), and triglycerides. The report may also include additional calculated values such as HDL/Cholesterol ratio or a risk score based on lipid profile results, age, sex and other risk factors. [Lab Tests Online]
Lipoproteins:
Compounds made up of fat and protein that carry fats and fat-like substances, such as cholesterol, in the blood. Since cholesterol and other fats can't dissolve in the blood, they are transported to and from the cells by these special carriers. [WIN]
Lost productivity:
Total limitation in work experienced by an individual. It is a sum of lost workdays and productivity decline. [USPSTF]
Lost workdays:
Days for which an individual reports being unable to complete normal activities due to a health condition. [USPSTF]
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL):
(See Cholesterol, LDL.)
Mammogram:
An X-ray of the breast that is designed to detect abnormal densities or masses that may require further investigation. Used most often as a screening test to detect breast cancer at an early stage. [HCCP/HSPH]
Medical expense, Indirect:
Money expenditures associated with an illness, condition or disorder, but not immediately related to its treatment. [USPSTF]
Metabolism:
All of the processes that occur in the body that turn the food you eat into energy your body can use. [WIN]
Morbidity (disease):
Any departure--subjective or objective--from a state of physiological or psychological well being. The World Health Organization notes that morbidity can be measured in terms of three units: 1) persons who were ill; 2) the illnesses that these persons experienced; and 3) the duration of these illnesses.
Mortality (death):
The total number of deaths from a given disease in a population during a specific interval of time, usually one year. Mortality data are compiled from death certificates and sent by each state health agency to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), where the data are verified and tabulated by cause of death, age, sex and race/ethnicity, for the nation and for each state.
Mortality rate:
(See Death rate.)
Myocardial infarction (or heart attack):
A blockage of a blood vessel in the heart that leads to the death of some of the heart tissue. [HCCP/HSPH]
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander:
A racial category referring to a person having origins in any of the original peoples of Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, or other Pacific Islands. (See also Race.) [OMB]
Nutrient density:
The amount of nutrients that a food contains per unit volume or mass. Nutrient density is independent of energy density, although, in practice, the nutrient density of a food is often described in relationship to the food's energy density. [IOM]
Nutrient-dense foods:
Foods that provide substantial amounts of vitamins and minerals, and relatively fewer calories. [USDA]
Nutrition:
(1) The process of the body using food to sustain life. (2) The study of food and diet. [WIN]
Nutrition Facts Panel:
Standardized detailed nutritional information on the contents and serving sizes of nearly all packaged foods. The Panel was designed to provide nutrition information to consumers and was mandated by the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990. [IOM]
Nutrition standards:
Federal, state or local guidelines for the nutritional content of foods and beverages.
Obese:
An excess amount of body fat in proportion to lean body mass. In adults, a person is considered obese if he or she has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater. [IOM]
Osteoporosis:
A disease of the bones, where the bones become weak and are more likely to break. There are no signs or symptoms of osteoporosis. Anyone can get osteoporosis, but it is most common in older women. The older you are, the greater your risk of osteoporosis.
Weight-bearing exercise and the consumption of calcium-rich foods during childhood and adolescence are critical to ensuring peak bone mass and to reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life. Since prevention occurs by reaching optimal bone mass during adolescence, it is not possible to make up any deficiencies later in life. [HHS]
Overweight:
Being too heavy for one's height. Overweight is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 25.0 to 29.9. Body weight comes from fat, muscle, bone and body water. [WIN]
Pacific Islander:
(See Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander.)
Pack of cigarettes:
20 cigarettes.
Pancreatitis:
Inflammation of the pancreas.
Pap test (or Pap smear or Papanicolaou):
A test to check for changes in the cells of the cervix, which may indicate infection or pre-cancerous cells that may develop into cervical cancer. [HCCP/HSPH]
Physical activity:
Any form of exercise or bodily movement produced by the contraction of skeletal muscles that results in an expenditure of energy above the basal level. Physical activity consists of athletic, recreational, housework, transport or occupational activities that require physical skills, and utilize strength, power, endurance, speed, flexibility, range of motion or agility. [CDC, IOM]
Physical activity, Leisure-time:
Physical activity that is performed during exercise, sports, recreation or hobbies, that is not associated with regular job duties, household chores or transportation. Examples include running, calisthenics, golf, gardening or walking for exercise. [CDC, USDA]
Physical activity, Moderate:
Any activity that causes some increase in breathing or heart rate (perceived exertion of somewhat hard; i.e. should be able to carry on a conversation comfortably). It is the level of effort a healthy individual might expend while walking briskly, mowing the lawn, dancing, swimming, or bicycling on level terrain. Any activity that burns 3.5 to 7.0 kcal/min (calories per minute); roughly equivalent to expending 150 calories of energy per day, or 1,000 calories per week. [CDC, USDA]
Physical activity, Vigorous:
Any activity that represents a substantial challenge, and causes a significant increase in breathing or heart rate (perceived exertion of hard; i.e. conversation is difficult or “broken”). It is the effort a healthy individual might expend while jogging, mowing the lawn with a non-motorized push mower, chopping wood, participating in high-impact aerobic dancing, swimming continuous laps, or bicycling uphill. Any activity that burns more than 7 kcal/min (calories per minute). [ACSM, CDC, USDA]
Physical activity, Weight-bearing:
Any activity that works bones and muscles against gravity, including, for example, walking, running, hiking, dancing, gymnastics and soccer. [USDA]
Physical fitness:
A set of attributes a person has in regards to his/her ability to perform physical activities that require aerobic fitness, endurance, strength, or flexibility, and is determined by a combination of regular activity and genetically inherited ability. [CDC]
Physical inactivity:
Not engaging in any regular pattern of physical activity beyond daily functioning. [CDC]
Population health:
The state of health of an entire community or population, as opposed to that of an individual. It is concerned with the interrelated factors that affect the health of populations over the life course, and the distribution of the patterns of health outcomes.
Portion size:
A "portion" can be thought of as the amount of a specific food you choose to eat for dinner, snack, or other eating occasion, whether eaten at home or away from home. A portion can be larger or smaller than a recommended food serving size. [NHLBI]
Prevalence:
An estimate of how many people have a disease or condition at a given point in time, or over a specified period of time, in a given population; usually expressed as a percentage of the population. [AHA, CDC, IOM]
Prevalence rate:
The proportion of persons in a population who have a particular disease or condition at a specified point in time, or over a specified period of time. [CDC]
Prevention:
The elimination of causes of disease from the population, so that the risk of disease is either reduced or postponed until later in life. [HCCP/HSPH] (See also primary, secondary & tertiary prevention.)
Prevention, Primary:
Prevention of a disease before it occurs (e.g. immunization). [USPSTF]
Prevention, Secondary:
Early detection and treatment of disease to prevent its progression (i.e. after its onset, but before it causes serious complications), as in mammography screening to detect and treat breast cancer in its earliest stages. [USPSTF]
Prevention, Tertiary:
Treating the late or final stages of a disease to reduce disability caused by the disease (e.g. foot exam in diabetics to identify infections that, if left untreated, could lead to amputation). [USPSTF]
Preventive medication:
A medication taken to prevent the onset of a disease (e.g. aspirin therapy to prevent heart attack). [USPSTF]
Protein:
One of the three nutrients that provides calories to the body. Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build many parts of the body, including muscle, bone, skin and blood. Protein provides 4 calories per gram, and is found in foods like meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, beans, nuts and tofu. [WIN]
Race:
The definition of “race” for U.S. federal government purposes is based on a person’s self-reported categorization, and is not necessarily based on biological factors. Note: The U.S. Office of Management & Budget revised its Standards for the Classification of Federal Data on Race and Ethnicity in 1997, to include five minimum categories for data on race: 1) American Indian or Alaska Native; 2) Asian; 3) Black or African American; 4) Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander; and, 5) White. In addition, it includes two categories for data on ethnicity: "Hispanic or Latino" and "Not Hispanic or Latino". [OMB]
Risk (of disease):
An estimate of a person's chance of getting a disease over a certain period of time, usually compared to an average person of the same age and sex. [HCCP/HSPH]
Risk factor:
An aspect of personal behavior or lifestyle (like diet and activity level), an environmental exposure (like lead or air pollution), or an inborn or inherited personal characteristics (like family history and age), that is associated with an increased occurrence of disease or other health-related event or condition. [CDC, HCCP/HSPH]
Routine checkup:
A general medical physical examination, as opposed to an exam for a specific injury, illness or condition.
Screen time:
The number of hours a person spends watching various types of electronic media (television, DVDs, videos, movies, computers, etc.), per day, week, month, or year. [IOM]
Screen time, Leisure:
The total amount of time spent using electronic media during one's free time, including exposure to television, DVDs, videos, videogames, movies and computers. [IOM]
Screening:
Tests that assess the likelihood of the presence of a disease or condition in an apparently healthy individual; methods include laboratory tests, x-rays, questionnaires, etc. Screening may be targeted to people at increased risk due to age, gender, family or personal history, or other factors. In most cases, screening is not a definitive diagnostic test. [USPSTF]
Screening test:
A test or procedure used to detect disease in a person who does not have any symptoms of that disease. [HCCP/HSPH]
Secondhand smoke (SHS):
Secondhand smoke is composed of side-stream smoke (the smoke released from the burning end of a cigarette) and exhaled mainstream smoke (the smoke exhaled by the smoker.) While secondhand smoke has been referred to as "environmental tobacco smoke" (ETS) in the past, the term secondhand smoke better captures the involuntary nature of the exposure.
Sedentary behavior (or sedentary lifestyle):
A lifestyle or way of living that requires minimal physical activity and that encourages inactivity through limited choices, disincentives, and/or structural or financial barriers; characterized by little or no physical activity during leisure time. [IOM, USDA]
Serving size:
A standardized amount of a food, such as a cup or an ounce, used in providing dietary guidance or in making comparisons among similar foods. This may differ from a portion size, which is the amount of food consumed in one eating occasion. [USDA]
Serving, Alcohol:
A standard “drink” in the United States is any drink that contains about ½ ounce (1.2 tablespoons) of pure alcohol. It is equivalent to:
- 12 ounces of beer or wine cooler;
- 8 ounces of malt liquor;
- 5 ounces of wine; or,
- 1.5 ounces (a "shot") of brandy or "hard liquor" (gin, rum, vodka, whiskey).
Serving, Fruits & Vegetables:
One serving of fruit = 1/2 cup fresh, frozen or canned fruit; 1/2 cup 100% fruit juice, 1 medium fruit, or 1/4 cup dried fruit.
One serving of vegetables = 1/2 cup raw or cooked vegetables, 1/2 cup 100% vegetable juice, or 1 cup raw leafy vegetables.
Serving, Grains:
One serving = 1 slice bread, 1 cup dry cereal, or 1/2 cup cooked rice, pasta or cereal.
Shot, Flu (or influenza vaccine):
The influenza vaccine is injected into your arm, or, with FluMistTM, sprayed in your nose, and is usually given in the autumn to protect against influenza for the flu season.
Shot, Pneumonia (or pneumococcal vaccine):
The pneumococcal vaccine protects against pneumonia and is usually given only once or twice in a person’s lifetime. (It is different from the flu shot or influenza vaccine.)
Stroke:
An interruption of the blood supply to any part of the brain, resulting in damaged brain tissue. A stroke can cause physical problems such as paralysis, problems with thinking or speaking, and emotional problems. [HCCP/HSPH]
Most strokes are preceded by one or more mini-strokes (transient ischemic attacks or TIAs) that should act as a warning to seek medical attention immediately. The most common symptoms of a stroke are: sudden numbness, weakness, or paralysis of the face, arm or leg - usually on one side of the body; loss of speech or trouble talking or understanding what is said; and, sudden blurred vision, dizziness, loss of balance, or severe, unexplained headache. [Lab Tests Online]
Stroke, Embolic:
One of three main types of stroke, caused by a circulating piece of a clot that lodges in a blood vessel in the brain. The clot forms elsewhere in the body, usually in the heart, and moves freely until it reaches the small vessels in the brain and cannot move further. [Lab Tests Online]
Stroke, Hemorrhagic:
May be caused by the rupture of a blood vessel, causing blood to accumulate in the brain. They can occur from the inside by aneurysms - weak spots on the artery wall - or from the outside from head injury. Aneurysms are often caused by congenital (birth) defects or high blood pressure. Hemorrhagic strokes are the most severe and are often fatal. The chance of a full recovery is less than that for the other two types. [Lab Tests Online]
Stroke, Thrombotic:
The most common type of stroke, caused by a clot that is not able to pass through an artery that may already be obstructed by a buildup of plaque (fat) in the blood vessels (usually in the neck) and block the flow of blood. [Lab Tests Online]
Surveillance:
The systematic collection, analysis, interpretation and dissemination of data to assist in the planning, implementation and evaluation of public health policies, programs and interventions.
Syndrome:
A group of signs and symptoms that occur together and are typical of a particular disorder or disease.
Testing:
Refers to any process used to determine whether a condition is present (or not), or to assess the status of a condition. Tests may be used to:
- screen individuals who have risk factors, but no indication of having the disease or condition;
- diagnose individuals who have symptoms and signs of a condition; or,
- monitor the progress of an individual who is being treated or being considered for treatment.
Triglycerides:
A form of fat that comes from food and is also made in the body. A normal triglyceride level is less than 150 mg/dL. People with high blood triglycerides usually have lower HDL cholesterol and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. (See also Cholesterol.)
Vegetables, Dark green:
Vegetables that fall into the "dark green" category include bok choy, broccoli, collard greens, dark green leafy lettuce, kale, mustard greens, romaine lettuce, spinah, turnip greens and watercress. [USDA]
Vegetables, Orange:
Vegetables in the "orange" category include acorn squash, butternut squash, carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes. [USDA]
Vegetables, Other:
"Other" vegetables include artichokes, asparagus, bean sprouts, beets, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, eggplant, green beans, iceberg lettuce, mushrooms, okra, onions, red & green peppers, tomatoes & tomato juice, vegetable juice, turnips, wax beans and zucchini. [USDA]
Vegetables, Starchy:
"Starchy" vegetables include corn, green peas, lima beans and potatotes. [USDA]
Vital signs:
Include blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.
Waist circumference:
The distance around your natural waist, measured just above the navel. Fat around the waist increases the risk of obesity-related health problems. Women with a waist measurement of more than 35 inches, or men with a waist measurement of more than 40 inches, have a higher risk of developing obesity-related health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. [WIN]
Weight, Healthy:
Compared to overweight or obese, a body weight that is less likely to be linked with any weight-related health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol. A body mass index (BMI) of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered a healthy weight, although not all individuals with a BMI in this range are necessarily at a healthy level of body fat; they may have more body fat tissue and less muscle. A person with a BMI of 25.0 to 29.9 is considered overweight, and a person with a BMI of 30.0 or more is considered obese. [WIN]
Well-being:
A view of health that takes into account a person’s physical, social and emotional health. [IOM]
White:
A racial category referring to a person having origins in any of the original peoples of Europe, North Africa or the Middle East. (See also Race.) [OMB]
References [acronyms]:
American College of Sports Medicine [ACSM];
American Heart Association [AHA];
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention [CDC];
Harvard School of Public Health [HCCP/HSPH];
Institute of Medicine [IOM];
Lab Tests Online;
National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute [NHLBI];
Office of Management & Budget [OMB];
Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease [PFCD];
U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA];
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services [HHS];
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force [USPSTF];
Weight-control Information Network [NIH / WIN].