General Instructions: Obesity is a multi-factorial health problem of mankind throughout the world. Dr. Atul Shah, , we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about obesity-definition, classification, symptoms, and causes. This understanding shall help you or your loved one to make informed decisions in regard to health and lifestyle changes.
What Is Obesity?
Obesity is considered the condition wherein there is an excessive accumulation of body fat that may cause many health risks. It can be normally measured through Body Mass Index, which is a calculation simply based on the height and weight of the person. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese normally.
Classes of Obesity
According to WHO, based on the BMI classification, obesity can be categorized into:
Class 1-Moderate Obesity: A BMI of 30 to 34.9
Class 2 (Severe Obesity): BMI of 35 to 39.9
Class 3 (Very Severe or Morbid Obesity): BMI of 40 or higher
These categories are useful for health practitioners in determining the obesity-related health risks and, therefore, set the treatment programs.
Symptoms of Obesity
Obesity may or may not show symptoms; however, it might cause other health problems and signs, including:
Difficulty with physical activities: The individual might experience shortness of breath or fatiguing easily while performing daily tasks or activities.
Joint pain: Excess weight can put additional strain on joints, potentially causing them to ache or become painful. Sleep apnea: Most obese individuals suffer from sleep apnea, a condition wherein one’s breathing constantly stops and restarts during sleep. Low self-esteem: Psychosocial consequences, such as anxiety and depression, could be higher in persons suffering from obesity.
Risks for various health conditions: It exposes the individual to risk for diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, high blood pressure, and cancers.
Also Read: Benefits of Gallbladder Removal
Causes of Obesity
Understanding the cause of obesity is quite vital to its management and prevention. The development of obesity is a result of a combination of factors; these include:
1. Genetics
Genetics can indirectly impact body weight through influences on metabolism, fat storage, or hunger signals. The risk of developing obesity tends to run in families. For example, if a child has one or both overweight or obese parent/parents, the child’s chances of becoming overweight are increased.
2. Diet
Diet plays a major impact on how much weight one can gain. Intakes of foods high in processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats greatly impact weight gain. Food portion sizes, in general, and the type of foods that are consumed, are extremely important.
3. Sedentary Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyle habits, possibly enhanced through technology and urbanization, predispose a person to weight gain. Healthy weight is maintained through regular physical activity.
4. Environment
The environment provides opportunities that may facilitate or hinder one’s decision to lead a healthy lifestyle. Opportunities for healthy nutrition, leisure activities, and sources of social support will either facilitate or inhibit choices.
5. Psychological Factors
Stress, anxiety, and depression precipitate overeating or poor eating habits because of the emotional factor. Some have to try professional psychological counseling.
6. Medical Conditions
Some medical conditions and their medication cause weight gain or prevent weight loss. For instance, hypothyroidism and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect one’s metabolism and appetite.
Conclusion
Obesity is a complex health condition and, as such, must be understood from perspectives of its classes, symptoms, and causes. The practice of Dr. Atul Shah, Best Obesity Surgeon in Ahmedabad, offers the most holistic approaches toward managing obesity through individualized treatment planning.
Contact us now, if you or anyone you know is dealing with obesity for a much healthier lifestyle.
