OBESITY; A CHRONIC CONDITION

Obesity is having a high proportion of body fat. It is different from weighing too much. Weight comes from muscle, bone, water, and fat. Obesity refers only to fat. A certain amount of fat is important for the body. It is used for energy and warmth. Obesity is then defined as greater than 30% body fat for women and greater than 25% body fat for men.

Obesity can lead to other serious medical conditions and for this reason has become a great concern of the medical community. Obesity can lead to physical discomfort (such as back pain, joint pain, and foot pain), high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary artery disease, stroke, osteoporosis, sleep apnea (short periods of not breathing while sleeping), fertility problems, increase risk of birth defects, liver disease, gallbladder disease, and even cancer.

Many factors work together leading to obesity. Genetics may affect the way you store fat and how well it is used by the body. Age also plays a role in obesity. The older you are the greater your chances of obesity are. Also women are more likely to be obese than men. Medical problems, such as hypothyroidism, can be a factor in obesity. Anti-depressants and other medications can also be a factor. If you have tried to quit smoking, you know that it is often accompanied by a weight gain. This may in part be due to a change that occurs in the metabolism. (Nicotine raises the body's metabolism.) Obviously poor diet and inactivity also play a role in obesity.

The goal of obesity treatment is to achieve a healthier weight not necessarily an ideal weight. In fact it is only necessary to lose 5 - 10% of your weight in order to become healthier and decrease your risk of other diseases. One to two pounds per week is the safest way to lose weight. Treatment generally includes a change in eating habits and exercise. Your doctor may prescribe weight loss medication and other services (i.e. counseling). In extreme cases surgery may be recommended.