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What is ObesityIf someone is obese, it means they are seriously overweight as a result of having too much body fat. In adults, the exact level of obesity is determined by reference to the Body Mass Index (BMI). A score of 30+ on the BMI indicates mild obesity. Types of severe clinical obesity include morbid obesity (BMI 40+) and malignant or super obesity (BMI 50+). At the extreme end of the scale is super-super obesity (BMI 60+). Child obesity is measured differently. It is based on BMI-for-age, and is assessed in relation to the weight of other children of a similar age and gender. Central or abdominal obesity, now classified as an independent risk factor for some serious diseases, refers to excessive fat around the stomach, abdomen or middle. Health Effects of ObesityObesity, especially morbid and super obesity, has been linked to raised incidence of premature death as well as several serious medical conditions, including type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, heart disease, high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, and stroke. Obesity is also a risk factor in higher rates of certain types of cancer, as well as fatty liver disease, vascular disorders, thrombosis, obstructive sleep apnea, musculoskeletal problems and gastroesophageal reflux. Abdominal obesity is associated with insulin resistance syndrome and cardiovascular disease. But if you are very overweight, do not despair. Losing even 5-10 per cent of your body weight can cause a significant improvement in your health. Obesity in WomenObese women are more likely than non-obese women to die from cancer of the gallbladder, breast, uterus, cervix and ovaries. In addition, obesity can lead to an increased risk of many obstetric and gynecological complications for women. These include infertility, menstrual abnormality, miscarriage and birth problems for both mother and child. Obesity in MenBeing typically apple-shaped, men have a higher risk for abdominal obesity which is an independent risk factor for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Morbidly obese white males aged 20-30 years old with a body mass index exceeding 45, can shorten their life expectancy by 13 years. Morbidly obese African American men of similar age and body mass index can lose up to 20 years of life. Obesity in Children and TeenagersAccording to the Center For Disease Control (CDC), the percentage of overweight children aged 6-11 years has almost doubled since the early 1980's. The percentage of overweight adolescents has risen by nearly 300 percent. Treatment For ObesityMildly obese patients can benefit from diet and exercise treatments, sometimes provided in conjunction with weight loss medication. Patients with morbid obesity, especially those with serious co-morbid conditions, may qualify for bariatric surgical treatments such as Lap Band or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Recommended Non-Surgical Treatment For ObesitySo what can you do if you're obese? How can you begin to regain control over your weight and shape? Here are two suggestions: first, get yourself a good incentive to reduce weight. Next, join a healthy weight loss program. One that allows you plenty to eat, explains what exercise is necessary, and why, and gives you tons of personal support to overcome the normal dieting headaches that cause you to quit. ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE EMAIL THE MODERATORS |
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