Obesity is a chronic medical condition that can significantly impact an individual’s physical and mental health. It is a leading cause of preventable diseases, affecting people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities.
Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It can increase the risk of developing severe medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, and some types of cancer. In this context, it is crucial to understand the medical issues related to obesity and how they can impact an individual’s overall well-being.
What is Obesity?
Obesity is a medical condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body to the point where it poses a health risk. It is typically defined by measuring an individual’s body mass index (BMI), which measures body weight relative to height. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese, while a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight.
Obesity is not just a cosmetic issue; it is a severe medical condition that can increase the risk of various health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and certain cancers.
Obesity occurs when there is an imbalance between calorie intake and expenditure. This means an individual consumes more calories than burning through physical activity and normal metabolic processes. The excess calories are then stored in the body as fat.
Various factors can contribute to this imbalance, including genetic predisposition, a sedentary lifestyle, an unhealthy diet, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications. Obesity is a complex condition with genetic and environmental components that can be challenging to treat.
Health Issues When Obese
Here are some health issues that can occur when you are obese:
Type 2 Diabetes
Obesity is a primary risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. Excess weight makes it harder for your body to use insulin to control your blood sugar levels properly. Obesity is one of the leading risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes.
The more overweight a person is, the higher their risk of developing insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s cells become less sensitive to insulin. This means the body has to produce more insulin to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range, which can eventually lead to high blood sugar and diabetes.
In addition to increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity is also linked to a higher risk of gestational diabetes in pregnant women. Managing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help to reduce the risk of developing diabetes and other health complications associated with obesity.
Cardiovascular Disease
Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. When a person is overweight, their heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, leading to high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease.
Additionally, obese individuals are more likely to have high cholesterol levels, which can contribute to forming of plaques in the arteries and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Obesity can also cause inflammation in the body, which can further contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.
Joint Problems
Excess weight puts more pressure on the joints, particularly the hips, knees, and ankles. Over time, this can lead to arthritis and other joint problems.
Sleep Apnea
Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing sleep apnea, in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Excess weight can cause fat deposits in the upper airway, obstructing breathing and leading to snoring and sleep apnea. People who are obese are more likely to have sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, which can lead to fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and other health problems.
In some cases, treating obesity through weight loss and lifestyle changes can improve sleep apnea and other sleep-related issues. It’s essential for individuals who are obese and experiencing sleep apnea symptoms to seek medical attention and consider working with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that addresses both their weight and sleep issues.
Fatty Liver Disease
Excess weight can cause fatty deposits to build up in the liver, leading to a condition called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Kidney Disease
Obesity can significantly impact the health of the kidneys, as they have to work harder to filter waste products from the body. This excess workload can lead to the development of kidney disease or the worsening of existing kidney conditions.
In addition, obesity is a risk factor for high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which can damage the kidneys. Studies have also shown that obesity increases the risk of developing kidney stones and certain types of kidney cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of kidney disease and other related complications.
Respiratory Problems
Obesity can also lead to respiratory problems, as excess body weight can pressure the respiratory system. This can cause shortness of breath, asthma, and even sleep apnea, which is a potentially serious sleep disorder that causes breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep.
In addition, obesity can also cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive lung disease that makes breathing difficult. Studies have shown that obesity increases the risk of developing COPD and can also exacerbate symptoms in individuals with the condition.
Cancer
Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing several types of cancer, including breast cancer (in women after menopause), colorectal cancer, endometrial cancer, kidney cancer, liver cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and prostate cancer (in men).
The exact reasons why obesity is linked to cancer are not fully understood. Still, medical professionals believe that excess body fat can lead to changes in hormones and inflammation, promoting cancer cell growth. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise may help to reduce the risk of developing these types of cancer.
Mental Health Issues
Obesity is associated with a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. Obesity has physical health implications and significant impacts on mental health. Many individuals who are obese struggle with poor self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and body image issues. The negative attitudes and stigmatization towards those who are overweight or obese can worsen mental health issues, leading to social isolation, low self-worth, and even suicidal thoughts. It is crucial to address both the physical and mental aspects of obesity to achieve overall health and wellness. Therapy, support groups, and counseling can benefit individuals struggling with the mental health impacts of obesity.
Reproductive Problems
Obesity can increase the risk of infertility, menstrual problems, and complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Obesity can lead to reproductive problems in both men and women. In women, obesity is associated with a higher risk of infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. These cysts can prevent the release of eggs from the ovaries, leading to infertility. Obesity during pregnancy can also increase the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and the need for cesarean delivery.
In men, obesity is linked to lower testosterone levels, which can lead to erectile dysfunction and a decrease in sperm count and quality. Additionally, obese men may experience hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance, affecting their reproductive function. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of these reproductive problems.
Treatment of Obesity
Obesity is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. Treating obesity involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and medical interventions when necessary. One of the most important aspects of treating obesity is achieving sustainable weight loss that can be maintained over time.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes that can help with weight loss include making healthier food choices, reducing portions, increasing physical activity, and getting enough sleep. Medical interventions for obesity may include prescription medications, bariatric surgery, and weight loss programs that healthcare professionals supervise.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy can also be an essential component of obesity treatment. Behavioral therapy can include counseling to help individuals change their attitudes and beliefs about food and eating and teach skills to manage stress and improve self-esteem.
Social Support
Social support can be crucial in helping individuals achieve their weight loss goals, such as through support groups or working with a registered dietitian or personal trainer. Ultimately, the purpose of obesity treatment is not just to achieve weight loss but also to improve overall health and quality of life.
Other Ways to Treat Obesity
- Lifestyle Changes: Eating a healthy, balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity are essential in treating obesity. Creating new healthy eating habits may involve working with a registered dietitian or certified personal trainer.
- Medications: Certain medications may be prescribed by a healthcare provider to aid in weight loss.
- Weight Loss Surgery: Bariatric surgery may be recommended for individuals with severe obesity or weight-related health conditions.
- Behavioral Therapy: Therapy can help address underlying emotional or psychological factors contributing to overeating or a sedentary lifestyle.
- Support Groups: Support groups or weight loss programs can provide a sense of community and accountability in achieving weight loss goals.
Treatment options will vary based on individual health status and specific needs. I always recommend consulting a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen.
Roadblocks to treating obesity
Weight loss can be a difficult journey for anyone, especially when you are obese. Here are some common roadblocks that can occur when fighting obesity:
- Unrealistic Expectations: Setting unrealistic expectations for weight loss can lead to frustration and disappointment and ultimately derail weight loss efforts.
- Lack of Support: Without a support system, staying motivated and on track with healthy habits can be difficult. Lack of support from family, friends, or healthcare providers can be a significant roadblock to successful weight loss.
- Emotional Eating: Emotional eating is a common roadblock to weight loss. Stress, anxiety, boredom, and other emotions can trigger overeating or binge eating, making it challenging to stick to a healthy diet.
- Slow Progress: Weight loss can be slow, and progress can be difficult to see. Slow weight loss can be discouraging and make it challenging to stay motivated.
- Plateaus: It’s common to experience weight loss plateaus, where weight loss stalls or stops despite continued efforts. Plateaus can be frustrating and make it difficult to stay motivated.
- Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as hypothyroidism or PCOS, can make weight loss more challenging. Medications to treat certain diseases can also cause weight gain or make weight loss more difficult.
- Financial Constraints: Eating healthy and joining a gym can be costly. Not having access to the resources or funds to make healthy lifestyle changes can be a significant roadblock to weight loss.
- Lack of Time: Busy schedules can make prioritizing healthy habits such as meal planning, exercise, and self-care challenging. A lack of time can be a significant roadblock to successful weight loss efforts.
How Our Medical System Fails Obese Patients
It is alarming the number of patients, specifically women, who go to the doctor for a serious problem and get no answer because all of their symptoms are blamed on their obesity. Not only is this unethical and unfair, but it is also incredibly unsafe.
Many people who are not even clinically obese and are simply in a “bigger body” are experiencing this type of dangerous bias. People are taking to social media to share their horrifying experiences. Some issues doctors have blamed on “fatness” include; cancer, ovarian cysts, long covid, respiratory infections, joint problems, mental health issues, and so much more.
Due to medical staff bias, people are not receiving the necessary medical care they need and deserve. Due to this bias, the medical community has cultivated fear in people with bigger bodies, so much so that people avoid necessary treatment that can lead to death. All because someone obese is too scared to seek treatment due to how they might be treated. This discriminatory treatment is a serious problem that needs to be addressed and fixed immediately.
Fatphobia in Our Medical System and its impact
The United States medical system has a long history of perpetuating fatphobia, which can seriously affect patients. One way this is demonstrated is by using the Body Mass Index (BMI) as a diagnostic tool. The BMI is a flawed measurement that calculates weight about height without accounting for other factors such as muscle mass or body composition. Yet, it is still widely used by doctors to determine whether a patient is “overweight” or “obese.” This can lead to misdiagnosis, as well as discrimination and stigmatization of people who are larger-bodied.
Another way that fatphobia is perpetuated within the medical system is through the assumption that weight loss is always the best treatment for health issues. While weight loss can benefit some health conditions, it is not always the best or only option.
Yet, doctors often push weight loss as the solution to health problems, regardless of the individual patient’s health status or history. Pushing this narrative can lead to patients feeling ignored or dismissed and may even result in harm if weight loss interventions are not appropriate or safe for the patient.
Fatphobia within the medical system can result in poorer health outcomes for people with larger bodies and shame and embarrassment for seeking medical care. Medical professionals need to address their own biases and work to provide non-judgmental care for all patients, regardless of their size.
The wrong ways to treat obesity
It’s important to note that there are some wrong ways to treat obesity. While weight loss surgeries and medication can be effective for some people, they should not be the first course of treatment. Additionally, crash diets or extreme calorie restrictions can be harmful and do not address the underlying causes of obesity. Fad diets that eliminate entire food groups or promote excessive exercise can also be dangerous.
Another wrong way to treat obesity is through body shaming or stigmatizing. Body Shaming can include teasing or criticizing someone for their weight or assuming they are lazy or lack self-control. Body shaming can lead to feelings of shame and low self-esteem, making it more difficult for someone to make healthy lifestyle changes.
Treatment for obesity needs to come from a place of compassion and understanding, recognizing that weight management is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices. The most effective treatment plans will be tailored to an individual’s unique needs and will involve a combination of healthy eating, physical activity, and behavior changes. It’s also important to seek support from a healthcare professional or a licensed therapist who specializes in obesity treatment.
Treating Obesity as an Eating Disorder
Obesity is often associated with overeating or lack of exercise. However, it is essential to recognize that obesity is a complex condition with various underlying causes, including genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Research has shown a strong correlation between obesity and eating disorders, such as Binge Eating Disorder and emotional eating.
Therefore, it is crucial to approach obesity as an eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia.
One of the primary reasons obesity should be treated as an eating disorder is that people with obesity often struggle with emotional and psychological issues related to food and body image. For example, many people with obesity have a history of dieting or restrictive eating, which can lead to binge eating and emotional eating. Additionally, the social stigma surrounding obesity can also lead to negative body image and low self-esteem, further perpetuating unhealthy eating behaviors.
Another reason to treat obesity as an eating disorder is that traditional weight loss methods, such as calorie counting and restrictive diets, often fail to address the underlying psychological issues contributing to obesity. Instead, a more comprehensive approach that includes therapy and behavioral interventions can be more effective in promoting long-term weight loss and overall health.
It is essential to recognize that obesity is not just a matter of willpower or discipline, but a complex condition requiring a holistic treatment approach. By addressing the underlying psychological issues that contribute to obesity, we can help individuals achieve lasting weight loss and improved overall health.
Final Thoughts
Obesity is a complex health issue that can lead to a range of medical complications. From respiratory problems and sleep apnea to diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, obesity has been linked to numerous chronic illnesses. It can also impact mental health and reproductive health. Treatment of obesity can be challenging and may require a multifaceted approach that includes diet, exercise, and potentially medication or surgery.
It’s essential to seek help from medical professionals and approach the issue with empathy and understanding, as obesity is often a result of a combination of factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. By understanding the medical risks associated with obesity, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of chronic illness.