Several centuries ago, being overweight was often a symbol of wealth and prosperity, as only the upper classes had the means to afford an abundance of food. In contrast, the lower classes often faced malnutrition due to scarce resources.

Fast forward to today's world, specifically in the United States, where this dynamic has essentially flipped. Now it is the people with limited incomes who suffer from weight issues, largely due to their environment disproportionately filled with inexpensive and low-nutrient offerings commonly found in "food deserts."

One significant driver of this shift is the targeted marketing of junk food towards economically disadvantaged populations. These foods are not just abundant; they are deliberately sold at low prices to attract families struggling to make ends meet. The pervasive availability of these unwholesome options exacerbates the issue, leaving quality nourishment out of reach for many.

The situation is further worsened by a healthcare system—notoriously viewed as lacking efficiency and accessibility—that fails to consider the devastating health consequences for populations most vulnerable to dietary diseases.

"Cheap food marketed directly to those who can least afford to be ill highlights a dire need for reforming the structural accessibility to nutritious lifestyle options."