Obesity is a complex medical condition involving an excessive amount of body fat that increases one's risk for other health issues. The main causes of obesity include:
How is obesity determined?
Obesity is determined by calculating one's body mass index (BMI). This measurement uses a person's:
To categorize if they fall in the obese range. Generally, a BMI over 30 is considered obese.
However, BMI is not a perfect measurement. It does not account for age, gender, or a person's muscle mass. So some people, like athletes, may have a high BMI but not be obese.
What health risks are associated with obesity?
Obesity puts people at higher risk for developing:
It also leads to a reduced life expectancy. The more obese someone is, the higher their risks tend to be.
What treatments are available?
Losing just 5-10% of body weight can lead to health benefits. Treatment options include:
Small sustainable changes to diet and lifestyle are best. Rapid weight loss is less effective long-term. Getting support from doctors, dietitians, friends, and family helps many succeed.