Obesity As A Disease
Research into, and our understanding, of overweight and obesity has progressed significantly over the last decade. Obesity is now widely recognised as a chronic and progressive disease. This understanding of obesity sees it classified similarly to many other common chronic diseases like arthritis and asthma.
We define obesity as the excess accumulation of body fat, affecting the health of the individual. Importantly, obesity is often linked to a range of other diseases including diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.
Defining Obesity
The most common measure used to define obesity is Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is a somewhat crude measure which essentially takes a ratio of your weight to your height. A BMI greater than 25 is considered to be overweight, while a BMI greater than 30 is considered to be obese. Within the obese range, there are further classifications – Class I (BMI 30-35), Class II (BMI 35-40) and Class III (BMI 40+).
The Size of the Problem
The problem of obesity is large and growing and more than 60% of Australians are now classified as either overweight or obese. Importantly, this number is even higher amongst males (and slightly lower amongst females). Perhaps most concerning though, is that more than one-quarter (28%) of children aged 5-17 are now overweight or obese.
Causes of Obesity
The causes of obesity are complex and exceedingly common. Most patients suffering from obesity exhibit a number of ‘risk factors’ which typically include:
- The genes you inherit from your parents
- How well your body turns food into energy
- Your eating and exercising habits
- Your surroundings
- Psychological factors including stress
- Your sleep habits
- Many common medications including antidepressants and even some diabetes medications.
Major Health Risks
Obese individuals face a 50% to 100% higher risk of early death compared to those at a healthy weight [NIH]. Obesity is often linked to, and may ultimately lead to a range of other major health issues, including:
- Diabetes
- Joint problems (e.g., arthritis)
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Gallbladder problems
- Certain types of cancer (breast, uterine, colon)
- Digestive disorders (e.g., gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GORD)
- Breathing difficulties (e.g., sleep apnoea, asthma)
- Psychological problems such as depression
- Problems with fertility and pregnancy
- Urinary incontinence, and shorter life expectancy
Risks to Psychological and Social Well-being
In addition to the many physical health issues which are commonly associated with excess weight and obesity, it is generally accepted that this disease can also have significant impacts on a patient’s psychological and social well-being, including:
- Negative self-image
- Social isolation
- Discrimination
Difficulties With Day-to-day Living
Normal day-to-day tasks can become more challenging when living with obesity, as movement is more difficult. You may tire more quickly and experience shortness of breath, even with basic activities. Some people find it harder to engage in social activities, comfortably use public transport, or fit into certain seating spaces.