Abuse a Common Theme Among Obese Black Women

Excusinators working overtime.

Sexual abuse might play a role in the development of obesity in young black women, the panelists agreed. Current estimates indicate that about 1 in 4 young women have experienced physical or verbal abuse in dating situations, with black and other minority women suffering the highest risk. "If you look at recurring patterns in teenagers, many girls have had sexual or physical abuse and have never talked about it. Instead of dealing with the issue, they eat," explained Janet Taylor, MD, a psychiatrist at Harlem Hospital in New York City.

At some point, an adult needs to act as an adult and stop blaming others.

Shut up.