What is obesity?

Obesity is a chronic disease where excessive body fat negatively impacts overall health.

It's often defined by a high body mass index (BMI) and can lead to serious health problems like

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Joint pain

Obesity also affects mental health and self-esteem.

What are the symptoms and causes of obesity?

Obesity typically doesn't show specific symptoms but is diagnosed based on BMI and waist circumference measurements.

Causes include:

• Medications: Some medications like steroids, may contribute to weight gain.
• Eating habits: Consuming more calories than your body needs, especially from processed foods, high sugars, and fats.
• Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyles with excessive screen time can lead to weight gain.
• Genetics: Certain genetic factors may predispose people to obesity.
• Stress and lack of sleep: Both can influence hunger and eating habits.
• Underlying health issues: Conditions like diabetes, depression, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may contribute to weight gain.

What health complications are associated with obesity?

Obesity can increase the risk of various health issues, including:

• Cardiovascular diseases: Higher chances of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
• Type 2 diabetes: Obesity is a major contributor to the development of this condition.
• Fatty liver disease and gallstones: Excess fat in the liver can lead to long-term damage.
• Arthritis and sleep apnea: Obesity can stress joints and disrupt breathing during sleep.
• Certain cancers: Obesity increases the risk of cancers such as breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer.

How is obesity diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis involves measuring weight, height, and waist circumference and possibly performing body composition tests. Your doctor will also assess your lifestyle and overall health.

Treatment options include:

• Dietary changes: Adopting balanced eating plans like the Mediterranean or DASH diet.
• Increased physical activity: Exercise helps burn calories and improve overall health.
• Mental health support: Counselling or therapy can address emotional factors that affect eating habits.
• Medication: FDA-approved drugs like GLP-1 agonists or appetite suppressants can assist with weight loss.
• Surgery: For severe cases, bariatric surgery may be recommended to limit calorie intake.

Can obesity be prevented?

Preventing obesity is easier than treating it. Small changes, such as reducing calorie intake, increasing physical activity, and focusing on overall wellness, can make a big difference.

Tips to prevent obesity:

• Make small dietary swaps, like cutting out sugary snacks.
• Stay active by incorporating simple exercises into your day.
• Shop for healthy foods and focus on long-term wellness instead of short-term weight goals.

Get Help at Prabhat Memorial Hiramati Hospital

Obesity is a serious condition, but with the right treatment plan, you can take control of your health. Contact Prabhat Memorial Hiramati Hospital today to schedule a consultation and start your weight management journey.