A number of economic, cultural, and contextual factors are driving urban America's obesity crisis, which can create chronic health conditions for those least able to manage them. Considering urban obesity through a social justice lens, this book is the first to help social workers and others develop targeted interventions for effective outcomes.

The text dissects the problem of urban obesity in populations of color from individual, family, group, community, and policy perspectives. Beginning with a historical survey of urban obesity in communities of color, anti-obesity policies and programs, and the role of social work in addressing this threat, the volume follows with an analysis of the social, ecological, environmental, and spatial aggravators of urban obesity, such as the food industry's advertising strategies, which promote unhealthy choices; the failure of local markets to provide good food options; the lack of safe exercise spaces; and the paucity of heath education. Melvin Delgado reviews recent national obesity statistics; explores the connection between food stamps and obesity; and reveals the financial and social consequences of the epidemic for society as a whole. He concludes with recommendations for effective health promotion programs, such as youth-focused interventions, community gardens, and community-based food initiatives, and a unique consideration of urban obesity in relation to acts of genocide and national defense.

Melvin Delgado is professor and chair of the macro-practice specialty at the School of Social Work, Boston University. He is the author of twenty books, including Latino Small Businesses and the American Dream: Community Social Work Practice and Economic and Social Development and Social Work Practice with Immigrant and Refugee Youth in the United States.

Christine M. Rine:
Social work students and professionals working in various practice settings and among diverse communities would benefit from reading this book.

Janet M. Liechty:
a valuable primer for students, scholars, and practitioners new to the field of obesity. The book offers examples of innovation and cites resources that will benefit even seasoned obesity experts. It also makes an important contribution to the field of social work, by making the topic accessible and urging social workers to apply their skills toward solutions to the problem.

Betty Garcia, California State University, Fresno:
In utilizing conceptual frameworks that are essential to understanding obesity and being overweight, Melvin Delgado effectively presents associated statistics and concepts that assist in analyzing the complexity of the problem and identify directions for addressing this epidemic. The shift to social, economic, and political actors to explain this phenomenon is direly needed in social work education.

Mario de la Rosa, Florida International University:
Melvin Delgado achieves his goal in addressing the complex nature of the problem of obesity and its underlying social, economic, and political causes by undertaking a proactive asset-oriented approach that, at its foundation, empowers urban communities with the guidance of the social work profession to find solutions culturally tailored to specific communities.