【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. predict / prɪˈdɪkt / (v.) – to express that something will occur or happen in the future
Example: Researchers predict that the country’s mortality rate will decrease next year.
2. proportion / prəˈpɔr ʃən / (n.) – a part of a whole
Example: The proportion of obese people in our community is increasing.
3. consumption / kənˈsʌmp ʃən / (n.) – the act of drinking or feeding on something
Example: You should limit your consumption of junk food.
4. implement / ˈɪm pləˌmɛnt / (v.) – to put a plan into action
Example: The doctors implemented strict rules on prescribing certain medications.
5. regulation / ˌrɛg yəˈleɪ ʃən / (n.) – the act of controlling or setting a limit for something
Example: The town officials imposed a stricter regulation on alcohol consumption.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that the obesity rate in Europe will increase in the next 15 years.
In 2008, more than 50% of men and women in Europe were considered overweight. Within this percentage, there were about 20% obese men and 23% obese women. But according to the WHO’s report, the proportion of overweight and obese Europeans may reach up to 89% in 2030.
Out of 53 European countries, Ireland will have the most overweight men, while Bulgaria [buhl-GAIR-ee-uh] and Belgium will have the most overweight women. The obesity rate of men and women in the United Kingdom is also set to rise from 26% for both men and women to 36% for men and 33% for women.
Other countries that are expected to have a higher obesity rate include Spain, Greece, Sweden, Austria, and the Czech [chek] Republic.
There are some ways in which countries can help fight obesity. One of which is placing tax on unhealthy food. A report by the Food Research Collaboration (FRC) suggests that this initiative can prevent obesity and type 2 diabetes. With taxes placed on unhealthy food, junk food sales and consumption would significantly decline. Among the countries that have already implemented this policy are France and Mexico.
Another way to prevent obesity is for governments to have stricter economic policies and proper regulation, a research from the University of California revealed. According to this research, policies that regulate fast food consumption and advertisements of unhealthy food will greatly help reduce the obesity rate of a country.
|
【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Why do you think the obesity rate in Europe is expected to increase in 2030?
· Do you think your country’s obesity rate will also increase in the coming years? Why or why not?
Discussion B
· What do you think are other ways to address obesity?
· What are the health conditions related to obesity?
