Obesity at its Worst by Sophia Delfin

One solution to the obesity epidemic includes changing one’s diet. In recent decades, low carbohydrate diets have become popular amongst Americans. Dr. Baladad, a physician at Marcotte Medical Group in Dyer, Indiana, explains the basic structure of a low-carb diet.

A low-carb diet emphasizes eating proteins, natural fats, and vegetables, while decreasing, and in some cases eliminating altogether, the consumption of grains, breads, pastas, rice, starchy root vegetables, refined and processed carbohydrates, and sugar-sweetened beverages. There are generally no restrictions or limitations placed on the intake of proteins and natural fats other than to “eat to satiety” (1).

Registered dietitian, Dr. Jennifer Fitzgibbons, explains the rationale behind carbohydrates and weight loss: “A low-carbohydrate diet is basically applied to diets that restrict carbohydrates to less than 20 percent of caloric intake” (1). Because carbohydrates are eliminated and replaced with proteins and vegetables, there is an automatic reduction in caloric intake and

thus promoting weight loss. Participants have lower triglycerides levels - the main fat-carrying particle in the bloodstream (Low-Carbohydrate Diets 1). Low-carb diets have also proven beneficial in treating and preventing chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity (Low-Carbohydrate Diets 1). 

Despite being restrictive of carbohydrates, low-carb diets have leeway in regards to what one can and cannot eat. Even more appealing is the inexpensive cost to maintain such a diet. With an abundance of online, resources such as recipes, tutorials and support blogs, people can virtually spend very little money maintaining a low-carb lifestyle. The options are endless and customizable upon personal preference.  As a result, people of any economic status could partake in this lifestyle (Aglaee 1).

Another solution to the increasing rate of obesity in America is weight loss surgery. Although highly controversial and quite costly, bariatric surgery is a rapid weight loss solution for the obese population. Renowned medical doctor, James Madura II, claims the most popular form of bariatric surgery is gastric bypass surgery. Dr. Madura describes gastric bypass as an invasive surgery that manipulates the way the stomach absorbs and digests food (1). Despite being a quick fix, the invasive medical procedure is extremely costly. As of 2018, the average cost for gastric bypass surgery is $23,000 (Weight Loss Surgery Insurance Coverage and Costs 1).

The procedure has also been known to do more harm than good (Madura 1). In a recent article, Harvard Medical’s chief editor, Howard LeWine, discusses the alarming link between alcohol and surgery participants. LeWine states, “It is reported that almost 11% of nearly 2,000 men and women who underwent gastric bypass surgery (the most common type of obesity surgery) got in trouble with drinking by the second year after surgery. About 7% drank too much before the operation, representing a 50% increase”.  Additionally, Pichamol Jirapinyo, an advanced endoscopy doctor in the Department of Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) brings up an alarming statistic, “The average person who undergoes gastric bypass will eventually regain 20 to 30 percent of the weight they initially lost. About a third of patients will gain back nearly all of their lost weight” (1).

Despite the appeal of rapid weight loss, individuals will still need to make lifestyle changes to maintain their new weight. The surgery alone will not help someone lose weight and keep it off.  Rather, it is simply a tool to jump start weight loss and to start towards the maintenance of long-term good health (Richardson 1). All and all is bariatric surgery truly worth the cost and the potential risks when there are less damaging solutions?

The best solution for Americans and their fight with the obesity epidemic is to maintain a healthy diet and to incorporate physical activity in their lives (Tello 1). Methods like low-carb diets and weight loss surgery are short-term and quick fixes that are both difficult to maintain and high-risk (Tello 1). A balanced diet, on the other hand, does not restrict individuals of healthy nutrients that are essential for the human body to function properly, nor does it cost thousands of dollars. It is simply a change in eating patterns. Along with healthier eating, individuals need to engage in physical active.   Higher levels of physical activity promote long-term weight-loss success. Medical doctor, Monique Tello, suggests aiming for about two and a half hours of vigorous physical activity per week to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle for life. It is just as important for people to enjoy the foods they love, but they key here is to enjoy them in moderation (Bruso 1). While sugars and alcohol are not ideal, splurging on occasion is not harmful to the body. Losing weight at a natural and healthy pace allows room for these treats that we Americans love. 

In the eyes of Alfred Camus, life solutions are illogical, and stopping the obesity epidemic is no exception. Devoid from intrinsic meaning, life to Camus was a battle; The battle between we want in this universe and what we actually find, and one will never find the meaning of what they seek. Camus believed that existence is objectively meaningless and people should not flee from the absurd worthlessness of life. Instead one should live passionately and to the fullest. Death is in inevitable and to focus on treatments and cures to solve the obesity epidemic is futile.

According to Camus, the obesity epidemic has to be viewed as a symbol of the absurd, and to understand that life is absurd is the first step to living life. Additionally, one must understand that life is meaningless and this should be embraced. The obesity epidemic is not one that should be solved but rather enjoyed in its own state. When people can stop fighting this life-long disease, people will be free. Despite the difficulty of understanding this absurdity and living in a world that is devoid of meaning, people should also be living without fear of the unknown. Living in fear gives meaning to situations and experiences as well as encourages human emotions – which Camus does not support unless leading to the discovery of absurdity. There is no solution to the increasing epidemic and society should accept this absurdity. Through this acceptance, people can begin to live freely, fully and enjoy life in the moment.

  

Works Cited

Aglaee, Jacob. “Daily High Protein Low Carb Plan on a Budget”. San Francisco Gate. 2017 July 20. https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/daily-high-protein-low-carb-plan-budget-1009.html

Bruso, Jessica. “How Often Can You Splurge on a Diet?” San Francisco Gate. 2017 July 20. https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/can-splurge-diet-2560.html

Baladad, Mary Jane. “What is a Low-Carb Diet?” Obesity Medicine Association. https://obesitymedicine.org/low-carb-diet/

 Jirapinyo, Pichamol. “Gained Weight after Gastric Bypass?” Brigham Health Hub. https://brighamhealthhub.org/gastrointestinal/gained-weight-after-gastric-bypass

LeWine, “Howard. “Alcohol Abuse Linked to Weight-Loss Surgery”. Harvard Health Publishing. 2015 October 2015. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/alcohol-abuse-linked-to-weight-loss-surgery-201206194908

“Low-Carbohydrate Diets” Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/low-carbohydrate-diets/

Madura, James II. “Quick fix or long-term cure? Pros and Cons of Bariatric Surgery”. US National Library of Medicine. 2012 October 2. Abstract https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3470459/

Richardson, William S. “Long-term Management of Patients after Weight Loss Surgery”. US National Library of Medicine. 2009 Fall; 9(3): 154–159. Abstract. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3096273/

Tello, Monique. “Which Diet is Best for Long-term Weight Loss?” Harvard Health Publishing. 2018 April 9. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/weight-loss-for-life-the-dietfits-study-2018040913595

 “Weight Loss Surgery Insurance Coverages and Costs”. Obesity Coverage. 2018 September 28. https://www.obesitycoverage.com/weight-loss-surgery-insurance-coverage-and-costs/

Bullying Should Be Eradicated by Blake Cloud

The global epidemic of bullying is a major risk factor for poor physical and mental health (Wolke and Lereya 1). “Bullying is a significant public health problem because it is prevalent and harmful. Between 20% and 56% of young people are involved in bullying annually” (Hertz, Donato, and Wright 1).  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2018) defines bullying as “unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance.” The worldwide problem of bullying has been publicized in the media happening in schools as well as workplaces, sports teams, social groups and even among families such as parents bullying kids or older siblings bullying younger ones.  Bullying research has shown “that there is a relationship between bullying and depression and that this relationship may help to explain the relationship between bullying and suicide is fairly consistent across papers” (Hertz, Donato, and Wright 3).   There are many disastrous effects such as “youth who are bullied are more likely to be depressed or anxious, have lower academic achievement, report feeling like they do not belong at school, have poorer social and emotional adjustment, greater difficulty making friends, poorer relationships with classmates, and greater loneliness”(Wagner1).  Schoolteacher, parents, and law enforcement need to concentrate their efforts to stop the epidemic of bullying, because it leads to anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression. Which have negative psychological effects on its victims and overall impact to society.

History  

            Bullying is a phenomenon that has been prominent for centuries but has only been brought to the forefront with the social and mass media highlights of it.  Bullying has been recorded throughout time. “The Bible is riddled with references to violence festered by the spirit of bullying. Specific examples include Cain and Abel, the rivalry of Joseph and his brothers, David and Goliath, and the parable of the Good Samaritan” (Allanson, Lester and Notar 31). 

The types of bullying have evolved over the centuries and so has the definition, an “antiquated definitions for a positive sense of the word bully ranged from “sweetheart”, “fine fellow” and “blusterer” (1530s through 17th century). An 1864 U.S. slang “bully for you!” preserved this positivity, however, the meaning waned to that of a 1680s version “harasser of the weak” (Hand have links to the Dutch and French word boel meaning "false talk, fraud," or "deception, trick, scheming, intrigue" (Allanson, Lester and Notar 31).  According to Stopbullying.gov, bullying is now defined as aggressive behavior that is unwanted.  The behavior must be repeated or must have the potential to be repeated to be characterized as bullying.  Currently, there are three types of main bullying:  “social, verbal and physical” (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services 2018).  Prior to the 1980‟s, the problem of bullying in the U.S. was not considered a serious event, “bullying was considered the norm or an initiation of rites of passage. However, due to the deaths, violence, and mental health issues was bullying seen as a major problem that needed immediate attention. Those victimized by bullying may suffer from: poor academic performance, low self-esteem, and on occasion take their own life or the life of the bully” (Allanson, Lester and Notar 33).  Mason researcher found “Bullying among teenagers is a global problem that can take a toll on teens’ health” (Musick 2010).  As bullying has become a major concern in America and all over the world, there is still major work to be done on ending the epidemic.  The social effects and long lasting effects bullying has on its victims, society and family is long felt.

Social Effects

The social effects of bullying involve not only the victim of the bullying but all of society. Bullying affects those who are the target of bullying, the bullies, and observers of the bullying.  Stopbullying.gov stresses “ parents, school staff, and other adults in the community can help kids prevent bullying by talking about it, building a safe school environment, and creating a community-wide bullying prevention strategy”  U.S. Department of Health & Human Services 2018).  A major social effect of bullying witnessed locally was the Santa Fe High School shooting.  Ten people died and more than thirteen others were injured after Dimitrios Pagourtzis went on a killing attack aimed at his fellow high school students and staff (Villafranca).  CBS News wrote in an article on May 21, 2018 “Antonios Pagourtzis, the father of the shooter, told the Wall Street Journal his son was "a good boy" and had been "mistreated at school." He said his son was bullied and said, "I believe that's what was behind the shooting." (Villafranca).  Therefore, it is important that all of society works to fight the social effects of the world- wide epidemic of bullying to prevent the negative affects it can cause.             According to Stopbullying.gov, anxiety and low self-esteem is one of the adverse effects of bullying (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services 2018).  “Those who bully others are more likely to drink alcohol and use cigarettes, to have poorer academic achievement and poorer perceived school climate, but to also report greater ease of making friends”. (Hertz, Donato, and Wright 4) “Involvement in bullying can also have long-lasting, detrimental effects months or even years after the bullying occurs. Young people who are bullied are more likely than uninvolved youth to develop depression and anxiety and report abdominal pain and feeling tense over the course of a school year. One study examining the impact of bullying victimization of those who were between 9, 11, and 13 years of age when they were victimized found, that over a 7-year period, youth who were bullied were more likely to develop generalized anxiety and panic disorder as adults while bully-victims were more likely to subsequently suffer from depression, panic disorder, and suicidality” (Hertz, Donato, and Wright).

 This incident did not only affects the victim it affected all of the city of Santa Fe and the country, especially surrounding communities.  The victims’ families will continue to suffer for a long time.  Witness to the shooting will have long-term mental issues, and the way we all go about our school day will be forever changed. 

Another, consequence of bullying is that victims develop depression. “Results indicated that each of the predictors were associated with risk for suicidal ideation and behavior (range, 2.12 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.67–2.69] to 4.02 [95% CI, 2.39–6.76]). Significant heterogeneity remained across each analysis. The bullying perpetration and suicidal behavior effect sizes were moderated by the study’s country of origin; the bully/victim status and suicidal ideation results were moderated by bullying assessment method” (Holt 500).   Several recent studies also found an association between, these studies, in conjunction with extensive media coverage of the deaths by suicide of several young people who were victims of bullying, led the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to convene an expert panel focusing on the relationship between bullying involvement and suicide-related behaviors. The purpose of the panel, held in September 2010, was to synthesize the latest research about the relationship between youth involvement in bullying (youth who bully, youth who are bullied, and those who bully and are bullied) and suicide-related behaviors (attempts, fatalities, and risk factors associated with suicide, such as depression)” (Hertz, Donato, and Wright 1). 

Unfortunately, depression evaluation is usually omitted during initial reports of being bullied (Wagner 1). Victims usually have suffered for long periods by the time depression is diagnosed.  This means that earlier detection of the onset of depression symptoms could aid in preventing bullying victims from lapsing into major mental problems that could have terrible outcomes (Wagner 2).  “Stakeholders in education and health should consider broadening their focus beyond just providing services to those who are already involved in bullying or suicide-related behaviors, but also in implementing strategies to prevent bullying and suicidal behavior from occurring in the first place” (Hertz, Donato, and Wright 3). 

Examples

Bullying has hit a global epidemic.  We hear of stories every day from media reports, possibly witnessing it in our schools, workplace, or even maybe a victim ourselves.

“A 14-year-old girl in treatment for depression reported that she was being bullied in         school. She said that girls in her classes constantly made negative comments about her appearance, dress, and behavior. They excluded her from social activities despite her desire to participate. She said that the girls were telling lies about her to boys in the class, which was damaging her reputation. What upset her the most was that an online site had been created in which students were encouraged to write all the reasons they hated her. She cried and said that she could not avoid the bullying even outside of school. She believed the only way to escape the bullying was to not exist anymore, and she confirmed that she was suicidal.” (Wagner 1).

 The most recent forms of bullying, such as “Cyberbullying has become an international public health concern among adolescents, and as such, it deserves further study”. (Nixon 147) “Adolescents who are targeted via cyberbullying report increased depressive affect, anxiety, loneliness, suicidal behavior, and somatic symptoms” (Nixon 148).   I have been a victim of bullying, which made me suffer a lot of psychological stress. I decided to report an unprofessional teacher because he was bullying me to my high school principal.  He threatened me daily that he would tell my coach and parents that I was causing trouble in his class if I ever revealed his “secret” life of hanging out with students away from school.  Once I reported the unprofessional teacher, he was fired from his job.  However, the bullying did not stop. 

I became a victim of cyber-bullying, which made me suffer even more.  A girl outside of my social group posted on Twitter that I was the one who should be kicked out of the school and not the unprofessional teacher.  She posted a poll on Twitter asking whom between the teacher and Blake should be expelled from our high school.  The social effects I felt were loss of sleep and depression.  Friends called, texted, came up to me at school, and said they would not be able to hang out with me because they did not want to be associated with the negative bullying.  I began isolating myself from my friends and family.  Everyone must understand that bullying can happen to anyone. 

I play varsity football and my girlfriend is the homecoming queen.  I have a strong mental state but the malicious actions of others can often have far-reaching negative consequences. “What is important for victims is to learn how to take action and deal with bullying when it occurs” (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services 2018).  The challenges I faced made me want to encourage government officials to look for solutions to help deal with the epidemic of bullying.

Solutions

Parents, schools, communities and children all play a role in stopping bullying.  Keeping the lines of communication open with kids and discussing that bullying is wrong is the first step to stop bullying.  Helping kids understand that they need to communicate to a trusted adult if they are bullied is also an import step in stopping bullying (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services). In fact “Being bullied by peers is the most frequent form of abuse encountered by children, much higher than abuse by parents or other adult perpetrators” (Wolke and Leyera 882).  Therefore, it is important to concentrate on solutions to stop childhood bullying.  According to Charisse Nixon in her research found few studies have looked at the prevention of bulling “in fact, 95% of adolescents are connected to the Internet. This shift from face-to-face communication to online communication has created a unique and potentially harmful dynamic for social relationships – a dynamic that has recently been explored in the literature as cyberbullying and Internet harassment” (Nixon 143).

 “Many bullied children suffer in silence, and are reluctant to tell their parents or teachers about their experiences, for fear of reprisals or because of shame.87 Up to 50% of children say they would rarely, or never, tell their parents, while between 35% and 60% would not tell their teacher”.(Wolke and Leyera 884).  Therefore, we must raising awareness among educators, health care professionals, parents, and adolescents concerning the serious nature of the epidemic of bullying.  This is one of the first steps in the path to end the epidemic of bullying.  Caring adults and mentors must make it a top priority to reach out to adolescents and establish meaningful relationships with them so that children feel comfortable reporting bullying to them (Nixon 1580).  The U.S. Government involvement in the epidemic includes websites like Stopbullying.gov and campaigns in schools to help children understand bullying.  There is not a specific law to prevent bullying according to Stopbullying.gov but  “when bullying is based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or religion, bullying overlaps with harassment and schools are legally obligated to address it but Americans are protected to some degree by” (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services).  Solutions and prevention must stay at the forefront of the government, communities, schools, clinicians, and parents to help end this epidemic.

Camus and Absurdity

Albert Camus “thought that life had no meaning, that nothing exists that could ever be a source of meaning, and hence there is something deeply absurd about the human quest to find meaning” (Maguire).   Camus “philosophical view was called (existentialist) absurdism.” (Maguire).  One of the questions Albert Camus examined was life in the face of death.  Camus main belief was The Myth of Sisyphus. He says, “There is only one really serious philosophical problem, and that is suicide” (Magurie).    Camus’s understanding of absurdity is best seen in “Sisyphus, condemned for all eternity to push a boulder up a mountain only to have it roll to the bottom again and again, fully recognizes the futility and pointlessness of his task. But he willingly pushes the boulder up the mountain every time it rolls down” (Magurie).   Therefore, the question Camus might ask is “Will Bullying Ever End’?  It is a cycle that has gone on for centuries.  One child bullying another to have another bully someone else.  We struggle like Sisyphus to push it to an end but it just rolls back down. Stop Bullying campaigns are in place at High Schools but they do not prevent students like Dimitrios Pagourtzis from being bullied and the consequence of the rock being push to the top to only have it roll back was seen in his outcome of how to deal with the bullying was to end lives.   If we have an honest confrontation with the truth but at the same time not let it destroy us, by facing the epidemic of bullying we address the meaning in it.

Conclusion

 In conclusion, “Bullying is a significant public health problem because it is prevalent and harmful”. (Hertz, Donato, and Wright 1). Bullying should be eradicated from our modern society, because it will led to anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. This can then effect the victim of bullying enough to lead to deadly consequences such as suicide or mass shooting. Cyberbullying will ruin someone reputation which can lead to that person having depression, and anxiety it can also cause psychological distress. Depression and Anxiety go undiagnosed most of the time, and without treatment, it can lead to serious effect.  Bullying will also led to low academic performance at school and work. There is a need for societies and schools to intensify the fight against bullying to protect children and students from the negative effects of this epidemic.

  

Works Cited

Allanson, Patricia, Lester, Robin, and Notar, Charles. “A History of Bullying.” International Journal of Education and Social Science: 2:12 (2015): 31-56.

Hughes, Thomas, 1822-1896. Tom Brown's School-Days. Philadelphia: Porter & Coates, 1882. Print.

Hertz, Marci, Feldman, Donato, Ingrid, and James Wright. “Bullying and Suicide: A Public Health Approach.” The Journal of adolescent health : 53.1 (2013): S1–S3. PMC. 

Holt, Melissa K. et al. “Bullying and Suicidal Ideation and Behaviors: A Meta-Analysis.” Pediatrics 135.2 (2015): 496–e509. 

Maguire, Laura. “Camus and Absurdity”. https://www.philosophytalk.org/blog/camus-and-absurdity. 27 February 2015.

Musick, Marjorie. Teen Bullying a Global Problem, Say Health Researchers. George Mason University (2010). Web 26 Sept. 2018.

Nixon, Charisse L. “Current Perspectives: The Impact of Cyberbullying on Adolescent Health.” Adolescent Health, Medicine and Therapeutics 5 (2014): 143–158. PMC.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2018). “What is Bullying”. https://www.stopbullying.gov/. 26 Sept 2018.

Wagner, Karen. “Bullying and Depression in Youths” Psychiatric Times Vol. 33. 2, (2016): 1-5

Villafranca, O. “Santa Fe High School Shooting Suspect's Father says son was Bullied” CBN News, 31 May 2018

Wolke, Dieter, and Suzet Tanya Lereya. “Long-Term Effects of Bullying.” Archives of Disease in Childhood 100.9 (2015): 879–885.

Poverty in America by Ronnie Bell

The great United States of America! Many would say, “The land of the free” or “The

Country of many opportunities”. A place you can achieve your dreams and live a rich and sustained life without the worry of struggle. But, what is not being mentioned is the epidemic of poverty that affects the mass majority of the human race at an alarming rate. Due to the increase of single parent households, unemployment, debt, rising cost of education, and race, the war on poverty in America is being lost. Poverty is in every city, state, and town in America and is making many people hopeless and rebellious towards the government system and to each other. What is being done to battle this epidemic? How is poverty affecting the children in America? More people will continue to struggle and numbers will continue to rise if poverty is not the main priority in society today.

History

            Poverty in the United States has affected countless people for more than 100 years. Many events have happened to conclude that America has battled poverty and still battling this epidemic in present time. “The Great Depression” was an event that happened in 1929 that set off a chain of events putting the United States into its deepest economic crisis known until this day (“The Great Depression” 1). By the stock market crashing, many banks begin to fail, stores closed, and unemployment increasing causing millions of people go into poverty (Gregory, 1). After this crisis, sworn in President Lyndon B. Johnson soon announced an “unconditional war” on poverty by pushing congress to pass legislation attacking illiteracy, unemployment, and racial discrimination in 1963.

Men, women, and children struggle everyday just to sustain the basic resources to be able to live a comfortable life. Single-parent households are one of the leading causes for the poverty problem over the past 10 years affecting all ethnicities. In 2016, 14% of the country’s total population lived in poverty totaling out to be over 44 million people affected by this epidemic (“The Population of Poverty USA,” 1). Now, to most civilians in the U. S, 14% might not seem like a large number compared to 327,453,645 (“U. S Population,” 1) people living in the United States, but the children of the United States are the main commodities who are feeling the greatest effect in this war on poverty. In 2011, more than 16 million children were living in poverty in America alone (“United States Census Bureau,” 1). That was 1 in 5 kids living below the poverty threshold. Children not only feel the effect of not having as much as most, but also feels that emptiness of not having both parents in a household. As a child gets older in life, they start to understand that both parents are not living together, causing much confusion and neglect. Not only does this effect the child but the household as a whole.

Rising cost of education has increased in a hasty way over the past 33 years for families in poverty. Student loans make up the largest chunk of U. S dollars (Maldonado, 1) meaning college students are already in debt before graduating. Since, 1985 the cost of higher education has surged more than 538% (“Understanding the Rising Cost of Higher Education,” 1). In 2006, 31% of students who attended college in poverty districts lived below the federal poverty line increasing poverty number of all races (Klein, 1). History shows, by education continuing to rise, the cost of education will continue to grow and America will continue to be in debt.

            When measuring poverty, race or ethnicity is a key component that divides the poverty rate by percentages. In 2018, African Americans was the highest ethnicity to endure the harsh reality of being less fortunate with 27.4% of people in poverty in America, Hispanics at 23.4%, Whites at 12.4%, and Asians at 12.3% ( United States Census Bureau,” 1). To determine the total number of civilians in poverty by race, the U. S census bureau uses a set of money thresholds that vary by family size and composition (1). If the family total number of income is less than the poverty threshold, then the family is charted as a family in poverty.

            Unemployment in the United States has been an up and down measurement when comparing the effects on poverty. Unemployment has decreased and increased over the last 18 years, providing a positive effect and negative effect on society. In 2000, only 3.8% of all civilians were unemployed in the United States, marking down as the lowest percentage in U. S History (Chappell, 1). In 2010, Unemployment percentages jumped up to 10% marking down as the third all-time highest, behind the Great Depression in 1933 at 24.9% and 10.8% in 1982 (Amadeo, 1). Unemployment in present time continues to be a bright spot when facing the war on poverty, due to steady decrease in unemployment percentages, and the creations of more jobs, so inspired legitimate working people can continue to feed their families. 

Examples

            Growing up in a single parent home, my older brother and I, have faced the reality of living in poverty. Our mom and dad divorced after 15 years of marriage, and it altered our lives in a hasty way. Our dad was the provider in our home, so most of the finances for us to live were from him. Mom had a job also, but the job did not pay anything close to dad’s salary. After the departure of our dad, we then became a single parent household with our mom. We moved to a two bedroom apartment, which was like 600sqft, with an A. C unit that basically worked off and on. Our clothes later became outdated, and we had to share a bed because we did not have much furniture in the home for one of us to sleep on the couch. The effect of our household being torn apart, and the family atmosphere not being present, was a total strain on our family mentally and financially. As the years passed, our situation got better, but this poverty experience will forever be remembered.

            A great friend of mine went to the University of Texas to major in computer science because he wanted to be video game creator. He was an intelligent person, but didn’t have the funds to be able to pay for school. He worked until he could attend the University and later accomplished his goal of attending the University of Texas. The tuition was expensive, so he decided to take out loans, so he could pay for school. Over the course of 5 years, his student loans accumulated to well over $30,000 dollars and he was now in debt. He was already in debt before he was able to even get hired for a job to start his career. Student loans is basically a monthly bill for him and he is still feeling the effects of past student loans.

Solutions

            When a person is in poverty, it is the individual’s responsibility to seek the necessary resources to help themselves with their hardship. Community leaders and the government has created numerous benefits and programs for civilians to be able to live a better life. The government has provided health care for families, work source housing, online websites to be able to find jobs, student loan forgiveness to help college students in debt, and now any ethnicity man or woman can locate, and find numerous job help located in their community. Not only can people find this help, it is easy accessible.

            Healthcare is a necessary commodity for all men, women, and children. The government has given less fortunate people access to healthcare such as; Medicaid and Medicare. Medicaid and Medicare is health coverage to over 72.5 million Americans and is the single largest source of health coverage in the United States (Eligibility, 1). Federal Law requires states to cover certain groups such as; low income families, qualified pregnant women, children, and individuals receiving supplemental security income (1). Not only does the government supply health care, but also Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP), that provides a source of low income families to be able to purchase food without using earned money from daily work source. Healthcare and food are two of the most important sources of survival, and Medicaid, Medicare, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance, are programs tailor-made for low income families needing help.

            Another important commodity for everyday living is housing. For, low income based families the government has provided public housing. Public Housing is housing that provides decent and safe rental housing for eligible low income families, the elderly, and person with disabilities (“public housing, 1). There are approximately 1.3 million units occupied by public housing authorities (1). This is a program that helps poverty tremendously by allowing low income based families to be able to have a place to stay, with  little to have to pay monthly. The government pays 75% of a housing voucher that is given to eligible participants, and the participant only has to pay the remaining 25% of the remaining balance monthly (1). For example; if a families rent per month is $800 dollars, and the government pay 75% of the monthly bill, then the family will only have to pay $200 dollars a month for living. It has been cases when families only had to pay $50 dollars a month for rent. This is a huge help for low income based families and needs to be taken full advantage of.

           

            The United State is over 1.4 trillion dollars in debt due to student loans. But, why is America so deep in debt? The government offers a program called Federal Student Loan Forgiveness programs such as; Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Forgiveness with Income based Repayment (PSLF) Forgiveness Pay as You Earn (PAYE), Forgiveness with Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR), Student Loan Forgiveness for Teachers, Student Loan Cancellation, Student Loan Forgiveness for Nurses, and Federal Perkins Loan Cancellation which help pay for students in debt form student loans. All of this government issued programs are available for students that needs help with past and present student loans. Taking full advantage of these services, would help the students who are in poverty due to student loans. But, if not taken more seriously more and more students will continue to struggle in this area.

Camus and Absurdity

            Albert Camus was a journalist who believed life was inherited without meaning. That life can be wildly unreasonable and absurdity to be a fundamental characteristic of the modern human condition. Poverty is an epidemic that cannot totally be resolved as a whole. There is always going to be families in poverty that are going to struggle in life. Many people believe the fight against poverty is a lost cause or even pointless due to the lack of completion as an entirely. Which sparks the question, is it absurd for civilians in poverty to believe there is no hope or chance that poverty will ever end? Or to think that there is always hope, and the chance for poverty to end? Camus wouldn’t agree with the chance of poverty ever ending, or having a chance of ending, by history stating and showing it’s not chance. As long as individual’s doesn’t change their mind frame and approach to poverty issues they are dealing with, there will be absurdity thinking on the topic of poverty.

Conclusion

            Poverty in America is always going to be an uphill battle to resolve. There is always going to be issues with the government’s plans to reduce poverty, and men, women, and children are going to struggle daily to live everyday life. The increase of education, debt, race, and unemployment will always affect millions of people year after year, destroying lives and dreams family by family. With the help of the government, community leaders, and the civilians in this great country in the United States of America, many lives and families will be saved and the fight on poverty will be won.

Works Cited

Amadeo, Kimberly. “Compare Today's Unemployment with the Past.” The Balance, 0AD, www.thebalance.com/unemployment-rate-by-year-3305506.

Chappell, Bill. “U.S. Unemployment Drops To 3.9 Percent - Lowest Since 2000.” NPR, NPR, 4 May 2018, www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2018/05/04/608442955/u-s-unemployment-drops-to-3-9-percent-jobs-report-shows-gain-of-164-000-jobs.

Eligibility, Medicaid. “Eligibility.” Medicaid.gov, 0AD, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/eligibility/index.html.

Gregory, James. “‘The Great Depression.’” The Great Depression in Washington State, 2009, www.depts.washington.edu/depress/.

Klein, Rebecca. “This Map Shows How Many More Students Are Living In Poverty Than 9 Years Ago.” The Huffington Post, TheHuffingtonPost.com, 24 Aug. 2015, www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/edbuild-poverty-schools_us_55d7ec51e4b0a40aa3ab1f94.

Maldonado, Camilo. “Price Of College Increasing Almost 8 Times Faster Than Wages.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 25 July 2018, www.forbes.com/sites/camilomaldonado/2018/07/24/price-of-college-increasing-almost-8-times-faster-than-wages/#5028651e66c1.

 “Public Housing.” Public Housing | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), 0AD, www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/ph.

 “The Great Depression.” Ushistory.org, Independence Hall Association, 0AD, www.ushistory.org/us/48.asp.

 “The Population of Poverty USA.” Poverty USA, 0AD, www.povertyusa.org/facts.

 “Understanding the Rising Costs of Higher Education.” Best Value Schools, 20 Nov. 2017, www.bestvalueschools.com/understanding-the-rising-costs-of-higher-education/.

United States Census Bureau. “Poverty.” Census.gov, 12 Sept. 2018, www.census.gov/topics/income-poverty/poverty.html

 “U.S. Population.” U.S. Population (2018) - Worldometers, 0AD, www.worldometers.info/world-population/us-population/.

The Addiction of Electronic Cigarettes by John Aumiller III

            Hin Lok, the inventor of the electronic cigarette, claims “The e-cigarette is the alternative to smoking cigarettes” (Boseley). This educated hypothesis has convinced much of the smoking population that e-cigarettes have become a healthier form of smoking cessation. Disregarding the truth of the previous statement, these devices have glamourized smoking amongst the younger generation within the United States. These devices are sleek, convenient, discreet, and pose a healthier way to use nicotine. The features previously listed are just some of the characteristics being advertised for these continuously evolving devices to customers. These traits are the perfect formula for the younger generation to feed their experimental curiosity stage, of their life.

This glamorization amongst minors is a goal that many members of the United States Food and Drug Administration have worked effortlessly to avoid. Videos and pictures found on social media of college students “chasing clouds” and performing smoke tricks have only increased the wonder and curiosity among the younger crowd. But these devices are a healthier method to nix addictive habits, and ought to be advertised with intentions on providing the user with the comfort of knowing that smoking cessation will be achieved with ease. The misrepresentation of electronic cigarettes, by our youth, is making it difficult for adults who are trying to use these devices as initially invented for. The absence of long-term effects among users results in unexplored knowledge of associated hazards, preventing awareness to the users of this newfound social epidemic of “vaping” on electronic cigarettes. The resulting data analysis from multiple studies shows a concerning trend of users who are underage. This data doesn’t bode well with the FDA, who are making a vast effort to gain control of this “epidemic of addiction” (Gottlieb). The main concern of the FDA involves to alarming rise of participating users and the fear of the addictive drug, nicotine, being a gateway to more harmful drugs and addiction.

The e-cigarette has been around longer than one would believe, dating back to 1965 when Herbert A. Gilbert (“Historical”) received a patent and created the first prototypes that never made it beyond the room it was created in. When e-cigs first appeared on the consumer market there was a feeling amongst users that this could be a helpful way to quit smoking combustible forms of tobacco. These devices can “resemble traditional tobacco cigarettes (cig-a-likes), cigars, or pipes, or even everyday items like pens or USB memory sticks” (“Electronic”). Nicknames among the e-cigarette community are “e-cigs, e-hookahs, hookah pens, vapes, vape pens, and mods” (1). Hin Lok created the first commercially successful e-cigarette, in 2003, after the death of his father due to lung cancer (1). Lok is a heavy smoker, like his father, and his goal was to create the “only satisfactory way to deliver nicotine alone in a relaxing fashion which might enable one to give up conventional cigarettes was through some form of smoking” (“Historical”). His first idea involved “using a piezoelectric ultrasound element to vaporize a nicotine solution in a devise resembling a cigarette” (“Electronic”). After the discovery of these devices, verities of models started to gain popularity throughout the world. Electronic cigarettes were introduced in Europe in April 2006 and in the United States around 2006-2007 (“Historical”). Now a worldwide phenomenon, surveys and studies have shown that many users believe these devices to be a healthier alternative to smoking, and this belief has caught the attention of the youth. A vast selection of alluring flavors accompanied with a great social media following has proven to appeal subconsciously to the younger generation. A few samples of flavors targeting the youth resemble foods or drinks such as gummy bears, cherry cola, and rice krispies.

According to a study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, children as young as 13 years old have admitted to using e-cigarettes (“Teens”). Advertisement for these profound devices can be found in many variations of sources. From ads on social media, radio and television commercials, or videos posted on social media accounts of teenagers having fun with these devices. Young teens are exposed to the idea of using electronic cigarettes as a popular habit to adapt during the time in their life when they are trying to establish a self-identity. The variety of different e-cigarette models allows one to choose a device based on the functionalities that favor the user. Some of these models allow customizable and interchangeable parts, another example attributing to teen use. Out of the many generations of devices, the most common to be favorited by the underage teens are the “cartridge-based e-cigarette” (Gottlieb). Most of these cartridge-based e-cigs are discreet in size compared to their counterparts, mods, that are equipped with a much bigger battery and tank that holds more liquid. Mods require constant maintenance and the need to carry a vile filled with the e-liquid of choice. Cartridge-based e-cigs like JUUL are compact and have a capsule refill, and the total size of the device resembles a USB memory stick. With products like JUUL, there’s no need to carry around a bottle throughout the day and constantly make a mess when filling the tank with e-liquid. When the cartridge is empty, the user simply throws that specific cartridge away and insert a new cartridge.

 It is well known that the “youth have always had a knack for getting hold of and using products they are forbidden to have” (“About Electronic”). Teenagers make strides to ensure the knowledge of their illicit use never reaches their parents. Before these devices were created, one would have to endure great measures to contain confidentiality. Hands had to be washed, gum chewed, and a hat worn to prevent the scent of smoke being entrapped in the user’s hair. An attribute of “vaping” is the vapor that is produced from the e-cigarettes doesn’t leave a lingering odor; it can be used inside and dissipates just as quick as it was exhaled leaving it almost unnoticeable. Ease of use and concealment could be one of the many reasons for such a surge in use amongst teenagers.

Despite the negative attention the e-cigarettes have gained, they’re a healthier alternative to smoking and have been used by many as a smoking cessation. There is still the threat of some of the harsh chemicals but not nearly as much as one could find in an actual cigarette. The combustion process of smoking tobacco produces carcinogenic chemicals found in cigarettes that include nicotine, carbon monoxide, arsenic, acetone, ammonia, toluene, methylamine, pesticides, polonium-210, methanol, and tar (“What’s in”). The vaping process “alters the chemical composition of the liquid very little” and “no new chemicals are created and no tiny solid particles are generated” (“About Electronic”). But studies have shown that certain brands of e-cigs contain nickel, chromium, and cadmium which could be the result of the heating element of the device (“Electronic”). The main ingredients of the liquids used for these devices are composed of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and flavors. Nicotine strength ranges from 0 to 18 milligrams per milliliter for the user to choose from. Propylene glycol (PG) is an organic compound that is used in many applications of everyday life (“About Electronic”). PG is used for fog in movies, stabilizer for oral and topical drugs, and prevents packaged goods from drying. Vegetable glycerin (VG) is derived from plant oils and provides a sweet taste and produces a thicker vapor. The flavoring used for e-liquid can be found in common food and drinks and hold no health issues. Each of these components have been in use for many years and have yet to show any ill effects on the health of an individual (1). An issue among the products used to make the e-liquid are the potency of nicotine within the liquid from each manufacturer (Gottlieb). Advertisements claim that their products have a specific amount of nicotine but have shown to have a different amount than what was advertised (1). Until there is a consistency among these products, it will be difficult for scientist to get accurate results from tests.

Scott Gottlieb, the Commissioner of The Food and Drug Administration, has expressed that the FDA knows that the e-cigarettes are a much healthier way to use nicotine and that the process of restricting sales to teens will be an inconvenience to those who use legally. It is understood that there is no intention for discontinuing e-cigarettes completely. Roughly 1-million e-cigarette users have admitted to quitting smoking altogether claiming it was due to e-cig use (“About Electronic”). These reports are based on users who take part in surveys and voluntary questionnaires that can be found on the Consumer Advocates for Smoke Free Alternatives Association’s website (1). But what the FDA will not tolerate is the ease of accessibility of these products to minors.

Counter active measures from the FDA include starting a Youth Tobacco Prevention Plan to battle the rising rates of youth usage and bring awareness of tobacco use and their effects on the growing juvenile mind. Since last spring “1,100 warning letters” and “131 civil money penalties” were issued to retail stores that were caught selling to minors (Gottlieb). Some of the companies have responded by discontinuing to stock the appealing flavors. The FDA has assembled the “largest ever coordinated initiative” to combat the retailers who continue to sell to minors, threatening to shut businesses down unless urgent action is taken to prevent sales to teenagers (1). Many of the big-name companies have been banned from internet sales to prevent “straw purchases” (1). Straw purchases can be defined as a teenager who recently became of age buys multiple devices from a site with the purpose of distribution to minors (1). Results of studies show that use among teens tripled “between 2013 and 2014” and adversely, teenagers that use conventional cigarettes “dropped from 16% to 9%” (Harrington). This trend is something Gottlieb claims the agency will keep a close eye on (Gottlieb).

After years of use with these devices, results are convincing that the rumor of e-cigarettes are a healthier form of smoking in general, is true. Personal experience has strengthened the belief that these have a “better” effect on the user’s body than actual cigarettes. Lung capacity wasn’t affected when trying to run three miles during or walk up flights of stairs during vape use. During use with combustible tobacco, completing three laps without stopping to rest was an impossible task. 

A recent doctor visit brought to my attention that there are issues with high blood pressure and this cause could be from e-cigarette usage. “Nicotine affects the cardiovascular system (temporarily increases heart rate and blood pressure) which makes it a concern for people with heart disease” (“About Electronic”). Nicotine’s direct relation with blood pressure when being consumed is concerning given there has yet to be a device that can accurately deliver consistent levels of nicotine. Ever since quitting the use of e-cigarettes, my blood pressure readings have had no issues. E-cigarettes did help to overcome smoking combustible tobacco without feeling the need to smoke one again. Over a length of time, it was discovered that vape use increased each day when compared to the use of combustible cigarettes.

Addiction should be closely examined with these products because to this day, struggles to stay away from e-cigarette use are present each day.  It is apparent after hearing multiple stories of young thirteen years-old’s being expelled from middle school for being in possession of these devices. It is assumed that these kids had older brothers and the young teenagers acquired the devices from them. This example displays just how easy it is to obtain electronic cigarette devices for underage teens.

For millions, e-cigarettes are the best solution to use for nicotine consumption over the archaic life-threatening past time of combustible products. The FDA knows that e-cigarettes are vital to end combustible smoking and strive to thwart teen usage but still be available for adults. The main concern is to curb the rising trend of underage teen usage (e.g. see fig. 1). Manufacturers such as JUUL, Vuse, MarkTen, blu e-cigs, and Logic “represent more than 97 percent of the current market for e-cigs” (Gottlieb). The primary goals of the Youth Tobacco Prevention Plan are to educate teens, parents, teachers, coaches, and other influencers of youth on the effects of using electronic cigarette products, prevent easy accessibility to the devices, and to rid the market of the enticing flavors that favor teens (Office). The Surgeon General is requesting that all governments carry out strategies “such as including e-cigarettes in smokefree indoor air policies, restricting youth access to e-cigarettes in retail settings, licensing retailers, and establishing specific package requirements” to help reduce use amongst the youth (1).

The FDA is also encouraging manufacturers to produce consistent levels of nicotine in their products. With the limitations being placed on the market, legal users fear, there’s potential that e-cigarettes could be banned from the market if trends for teens use do not slow down, which would be devasting for those that choose to use these products in an effort of cessation (Barlow). Additionally, the FDA will now begin to monitor online purchases, for many of the businesses that will still be allowed to use this platform, to ensure no straw purchases are made (Office).

Albert Camus believes that there are no actual goals in life for life being absurd (Maguire). His beliefs would not apply to this topic because life is pointless from the start. If there was a relation, based on what we know about Camus, he would lack care for either outcome of this event. He would see this as a way for people to endure the daily lifestyle of the absurd. Much like the story of Sisyphus, who had to repeatedly push a boulder up a mountain, could have found some form of enjoyment with his lifelong task. Whether or not an individual would want to smoke combustible tobacco or use electronic cigarettes doesn’t deter from the fact that it can be viewed as a form of enjoyment. Camus viewed suicide as a choice to no longer deal with the absurdity of life, so whether one was to live or not due to health effects of nicotine use would hold little effect to him. His thoughts would be that everyone has the choice to do what they will; anything that breaks the consistent lifestyle as a form of distraction would be widely accepted.

The social effects of the misuse of electronic cigarettes among young adults is now a worldwide epidemic that must be controlled and maintained. The importance of this matter is critical seeing that nicotine is highly addictive and is seen as a possible gateway to other, more harmful, chemicals. E-cigarettes have shown to be an effective device for smoking cessation for those who choose to quit. The FDA is aware of the benefits of using the electronic devices and encourage those who smoke to use them. Though e-cigs do not contribute to second hand smoke and have posed no critical short-term effects, thus far, the FDA has made it their goal to prevent sales to underage teenagers. Efforts have been made to stop online sales of e-cigs to reduce the chances of minors attaining products easily through websites and businesses have been advised to take drastic measures to prevent sales to minors by ridding the flavors that are so attractive to the naïve mind.

Works Cited

“About Electronic Cigarettes.” CASAA, CASAA - Consumer Advocates for Smoke-Free Alternatives Association, 23 Aug. 2016, www.casaa.org/electronic-cigarettes/

Barlow, Rich. “Will the Government Ban E-Cigarettes?” BU Today, 17 Sept. 2018, http://www.bu.edu/today/2018/will-the-government-ban-e-cigarettes/

Boseley, Sarah. “Hon Lik Invented the e-Cigarette to Quit Smoking – but Now He's a Dual User.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 9 June 2015, www.theguardian.com/society/2015/jun/09/hon-lik-e-cigarette-inventor-quit-smoking-dual-user.

“Electronic Cigarettes (E-Cigarettes).” NIDA, National Institute on Drug Abuse, www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/electronic-cigarettes-e-cigarettes

Gottlieb, Scott. “Press Announcements - Statement from FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D., on New Steps to Address Epidemic of Youth e-Cigarette Use.” U S Food and Drug Administration Home Page, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, 12 Sept. 2018, www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm620185.htm

Harrington, Erika. “What are the Health and Social Impacts of Electronic Cigarettes? [Potty Mouth].” Mineral Museum, Mar. 2015, https://sites.jmu.edu/gbio103/what-are-the-health-and-social-impacts-of-electronic-cigarettes-potty-mouth/

“Historical Timeline of Electronic Cigarettes.” CASAA, CASAA, 18 Oct. 2018, www.casaa.org/historical-timeline-of-electronic-cigarettes/

Maguire, Laura. “Camus and Absurdity.” Philosophy Talk, 27 Feb. 2015, https://www.philosophytalk.org/blog/camus-and-absurdity

Office of the Surgeon General. “E-Cigarette Use Among Youth and Young Adults.” Know the Risks: Electronic Cigarettes and & Young People, 2016, https://e-cigarettes.surgeongeneral.gov/documents/2016_SGR_Exec_Summ_508.pdf

“Teens and E-Cigarettes.” NIDA, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Department of Health and Human Services, 11 Feb. 2016, www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/infographics/teens-e-cigarettes

“What's in a Cigarette?” Irish Cancer Society, 30 May 2016, www.cancer.ie/reduce-your-risk/smoking/health-risks/whats-in-cigarettes#sthash.dinHbMw1.m46zYykq.dpbs