Obesity

As previously stated, being obese can lead to other serious medical conditions, such as:  

• Heart disease  
• Stroke  
• High blood pressure  
• Type 2 diabetes 
• Metabolic syndrome  
• Fatty liver diseases 
• Some types of cancer  
• Gout  
• Osteoarthritis  
• Kidney disease  
• Pregnancy issues  
• Fertility issues  
• Mental health disorders 

Managing and treating obesity sooner rather than later will lead to a better quality of life and wellbeing.⁶ 

Obesity is defined as an abnormal amount of fat accumulation that presents a risk to one’s health. A BMI measurement of 30 or greater is considered obese.¹

Obesity has become a very common medical condition. As of 2022, about 1 in 8 people are living with obesity. Since 1990, adult obesity has more than doubled, and adolescent obesity has quadrupled. Due to the rising prevalence of obesity, it has become an increasingly concerning public health concern.³

The following 5 categories are considered to be the main risk factors for obesity⁴: 

• Health behaviors, including: 
  • Lack of physical activity  
  • Unhealthy eating patterns  
  • Poor quality of sleep  
  • Lack of sleep  
  • Excess TV, computer, or screen time  
• Stress 
  • Chronic stress can negatively impact your brain and trigger your body to make high levels of unwanted hormones like cortisol. The increased levels of these hormones in the body may increase appetite and promote inflammation. 
• Health conditions and medications  
  • Health conditions that may lead to weight gain include Cushing syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, or underactive thyroid.  
  • Some medications that are commonly linked to weight gain include psychiatric medications (such as antidepressants), steroids, progestins, anti-seizure or mood-stabilizing drugs, and certain blood pressure and diabetes medications.  
• Genes 
  • In rare cases, specific gene disorders can directly cause obesity. These disorders include Bardet-Biedl syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome.  
• Systems and environment  
  • Health and wellbeing are largely impacted by our access to resources and the conditions that we work, live and learn in. These factors often influence people to make decisions about their health daily. Examples include: 
  • Access to healthy and affordable foods.  
  • Access to safe places for exercising  
  • Childcare and school environments  
  • Access to high-quality health care  
  • Safe housing and/or transportation  
  • Economic stability and financial mobility 

Typically, a healthcare professional will diagnose someone with obesity after understanding health history, physical wellbeing, BMI measurement and waist size. A healthcare provider will first investigate your health history to determine weight-gain, physical activity level and eating habits. From there, the provider can conduct a physical exam that often includes calculating BMI and measuring waist size. If the BMI measurement is above 30, this is considered obese. However, it is important to note that body type plays a role in this calculation.⁵

Obesity is often managed through diet and exercise modifications. Recent pharmacotherapy interventions have also been approved to manage obesity alongside diet and exercise modifications but should not be used in place of these lifestyle changes. Dietary changes include cutting calories, making healthier food choices, restricting certain foods or food groups and meal replacements. Exercise interventions include increased duration and frequency of physical activity. It is key to note that every patient is different, and that different management strategies should be employed based on the person’s situation.⁵

The difference between being overweight and obese is typically measured by BMI. Overweight is classified by a BMI greater than or equal to 25 but no more than 30. Obesity is classified by a BMI of 30 or more. A healthcare provider should be consulted to differentiate this in a patient.⁵

Obesity can affect people of all ages. Over the past 30 years, obesity rates have risen significantly among both adults and adolescents. Individuals of all genders are at risk.⁵

Researchers are continuously investigating potential new and more effective treatments. For guidance on the best treatment options for you—and to determine if you may qualify for a clinical trial—please speak with your healthcare provider.