Obesity Health Risks
In the year 2000, a total of 38.8 million American adults met the classification of obesity, defined as having a body mass index score of 30 or more. Taking into account all of the health risks involved with being obese, those are some concerning numbers.
Doctors and experts agree that overweight and obesity can make you more likely to develop medical problems such as:
Heart Disease and Stroke
Overweight people are more likely to have high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Having very high blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (which is often linked to being overweight) can also lead to heart disease.
In addition, overweight and obesity also contributes to Angina (chest pain caused by decreased oxygen to the heart) and sudden death due to heart disease or stroke without any prior warning signs or symptoms.
Diabetes
Overweight people are twice as likely to develop Type 2 Diabetes (the most common form) as those who are not overweight. Type 2 Diabetes reduces your body's ability to control your blood sugar and is a major cause of early death, heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, and blindness.
Cancer
Some types of cancer are associated with being overweight or obese. Overweight women are at a higher risk for cancer of the uterus, gallbladder, cervix, ovary, breast, and colon than those who are not overweight. Overweight men have a greater risk for developing cancer of the colon, rectum, and prostate than men who are not overweight.
Sleep Apnea
This is a serious condition that can cause a person to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep and to snore heavily. Sleep apnea may cause daytime sleepiness and even heart failure. This condition is closely associated with being overweight. The more overweight a person is, the more increased their risk for developing Sleep Apnea.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder that usually affects the joints in the knees, hips, and lower back. Being overweight appears to increase the risk of developing Osteoarthritis. The added weight puts extra pressure on these joints and wear away the cartilage (tissue that cushions the joints) that normally protects them.
The Bottom Line
The more overweight a person is, the more likely they are to have health problems. The good news is that losing weight and exercising regularly can help improve the harmful effects of being overweight. Studies show that people who are overweight or obese can improve their health by losing just 10% of their body weight.
If you are overweight or obese, it is important that you consult with your doctor to discuss the best plan for you to follow to help you lose weight. In addition to lowering your risk for major medical problems, you'll also feel better, in both body and mind. You owe it to yourself and your health.
For more information on obesity, see:
If you think you are overweight or obese, talk with your doctor about designing a plan to help you lose weight and live a healthier life.
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