Health Risks Connected To Obesity

Apr 28, 2023

Obesity is a significant health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition where an individual has excess body fat for their age and height than the recommended average, leading to various health problems.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global obesity rates have nearly tripled since 1975, and it is projected that by 2025, 18% of men and 21% of women worldwide will be obese. Therefore, it is expected that people with obesity are expected to increase in the coming years. This article will discuss the primary risks that are connected to obesity and its hidden impact on overall quality of health.

Understanding Obesity

Obesity is a challenging disease caused by genes, the surroundings, and people’s choices. A person’s level of body fat may be estimated from their weight and height using a measurement tool called the Body Mass Index (BMI). Greater body mass index values are associated with increased levels of body fat, and it turn obesity.

Being obese increases the risk of health conditions like heart disease, stroke, and even cancer. Obesity can be handled effectively with the right medical intervention. Nowadays, the concept of weight loss surgery is becoming a reliable option to lose weight among individuals who don’t respond to diet and exercise well or have excess weight that is too hard to lose.

Health Risks of Obesity

Obesity is often linked to several diseases, including an increased risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. In addition to its physical side effects, obesity has been linked to various health conditions, such as high blood pressure, breathing problems, and certain types of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer.

Apart from the physical health dangers, obesity can also adversely affect a person’s mental health by causing feelings of anxiety, sadness, depression, and a lack of self-esteem. It is essential to prioritize a healthy weight by incorporating a balanced diet and regular exercise routine to reduce the likelihood of experiencing health problems.

Obesity and Cardiovascular Diseases

Being obese can significantly increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The American Heart Association warns that obese individuals, when compared to those with a healthy weight, have a 2-3 times greater risk of developing coronary heart disease.

Moreover, obesity can cause plaque accumulation in the arteries, narrowing blood vessels and heightening the risk of heart disease. In addition, the duration and severity of obesity further amplify the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Options like getting a gastric balloon can help individuals struggling with obesity to lose weight and reduce their risk of developing heart disease.

Obesity and Cancer

According to the National Cancer Institute, being overweight increases one’s chance of developing several types of cancer. In addition, excessive bodily fat is believed to cause endocrine shifts and inflammation, which can add to cancer growth, though the specific link between the two is not well known.

Mental Health and Obesity

Obesity can impact mental health. Obesity causes sadness, worry, and low self-esteem. Obesity’s social shame can harm mental health and lead to discrimination. Reducing one’s social movement, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks, and lessening one’s overall enjoyment of life are ways obesity can negatively impact one’s quality of life.

Conclusion

Obesity is related to a wide range of severe medical conditions. The health dangers associated with obesity are substantial. Knowing these will help you take the necessary steps to reduce your weight and protect your health.

Alongside a healthy diet and exercise routine, options like Mini gastric bypass and other forms of weight loss surgery are some reliable options for people who are overweight to reduce their chances of developing obesity and related health concerns.

However, you and your doctor should discuss whether or not this course of action is appropriate for you, depending on your unique health profile, other health conditions, and weight loss expectations. Remember that taking care of yourself to stay at a reasonable weight is an excellent way to boost your health, and overall well-being as you age.