Understanding Obesity
Obesity is an excess proportion of total body fat. A person is considered obese when their weight is 20% or more above normal weight. Body Mass Index (BMI) – weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared – is the most common measure: a BMI of 25-29.9 is overweight, and over 30 is obese. Morbid obesity refers to excess weight severe enough to cause health hazards, generally a BMI of 35 or above.
What Causes Obesity?
Obesity occurs when calorie intake exceeds output, influenced by age, gender, genetics, environmental and physical factors, psychological factors, medication, and other conditions such as hypothyroidism.
Health Complications of Obesity
- Diabetes – risk of type 2 diabetes increases up to 93 times at a BMI of 35 or above.
- Metabolic syndrome – insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension and increased cardiovascular risk.
- Respiratory disease – obstructive sleep apnea and worsened asthma.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease – higher incidence in obese patients.
- Cardiovascular disease – increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke.
- Incontinence and menstrual irregularities.
- Pregnancy complications – hypertension, preeclampsia and higher risk of caesarean section.
- Osteoarthritis of weight-bearing joints, back pain and reduced mobility.
When to Seek Help
You should consider a consultation if you have a BMI of 30 or higher, carry weight predominantly around the abdomen, or are experiencing obesity-related emotional or health issues. Non-surgical approaches (diet, exercise, medication) show poor long-term results in morbid obesity, which is why our center focuses on surgical management for eligible patients – our friendly staff will explain all treatment options, surgical and otherwise, when you visit.