Traditionally, the word “epidemic” has been used to describe the widespread occurrence of an infectious disease, such as the recent Zika virus that has been grabbing news headlines. But in the last decade, many have started applying the term to other health issues affecting large portions of our population.

The most notable instance of this can be seen with the current “epidemic” of obesity and cardiovascular disease, especially in the United States. While in many cases infectious diseases can be cured or vaccinated against, increases in obesity and cardiovascular disease seem to stem from our culture, meaning the problem may only be solved by a massive change in lifestyle and health education.

To put these health issues in context, here is a timeline displaying the epidemics that have defined the generations.