Obesity is the accumulation of excessive body fat that poses health risks, defined by a body fat measurement (body mass index) of 30 or higher based on height and weight. Obesity contributes to the development of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver disease, and sleep apnea. However, it is a treatable condition. Physical activity, healthy eating, and behavioral changes are commonly used in obesity treatment to aid in weight loss. In some cases, medication or surgical interventions developed specifically for obesity may also be utilized.
What is Obesity?
Obesity occurs when an individual consumes more calories than their body can use, leading to a body mass index (BMI) of over 30, which is calculated as the ratio of weight in kilograms to the square of height in meters. It represents a mismatch between BMI and the body’s height and structure. Obesity is also characterized by fat accumulation in the abdominal area and around internal organs. An imbalanced increase in body fat can lead to cardiovascular diseases, such as arterial blockage, stroke, and high cholesterol. Being obese or overweight often brings about shortness of breath as well.
Obesity is a rapidly advancing health issue worldwide and in our country. Obesity rates are increasing daily. As average life expectancy grows, obesity emerges as a condition that significantly reduces quality of life, lowers productivity, and requires urgent treatment.
What is Obesity?
What Are the Symptoms of Obesity?
The primary and most noticeable symptom of obesity is an increase in body fat percentage. As obesity progresses, the following symptoms may appear:
- Fat accumulation around the waist
- Sleep apnea, snoring, and difficulty sleeping
- Persistent and excessive sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty with physical activity
- Constant fatigue and exhaustion
- Skin issues such as rashes, acne, and infections
- Joint and back pain
- Leg pain due to excessive weight
- Psychological problems like depression and social isolation
- Intolerance to heat
What Causes Obesity?
Obesity can arise from psychological issues or hormonal factors, but the primary contributors are a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits. The causes of obesity can be summarized as follows:
- Excessive and unhealthy eating habits
- Lack of physical activity
- Factors such as age, gender, education level, socio-cultural influences, and income status
- Hormonal and metabolic factors
- Genetic and psychological influences
- Frequent use of very low-calorie diets
- Habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption
- Certain medications (e.g., antidepressants)
- Number of births and short intervals between pregnancies
- Inadequate breastfeeding during infancy
What is Obesity?
Excessive and Unhealthy Eating Habits
Consuming fatty foods, relying on fast food, and making these habits part of daily life increase body fat percentage and pave the way for obesity.
Lack of Physical Activity
A sedentary lifestyle or failure to engage in regular exercise prevents fat burning, especially when combined with unhealthy eating habits, leading to obesity.
Age, Gender, Education Level, Socio-Cultural Factors, and Income Status
Factors such as education level, living environment, cultural influences, income status, and gender can contribute to the development of obesity by creating barriers to a healthy lifestyle.
Hormonal and Metabolic Factors
Hormonal imbalances and a slow metabolism make it difficult for the body to burn fat, leading to excessive weight gain. Medications taken for hormonal issues can also increase appetite, contributing to obesity.
Genetic and Psychological Factors
Conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders are key contributors to obesity. Social environment and family relationships can also play a role. A family history of obesity significantly increases the risk.
Frequent Use of Very Low-Calorie Diets
Repeatedly following low-calorie diets, especially with age, slows down the metabolism. When combined with a sedentary lifestyle, it can lead to weight gain and eventually obesity.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption Habits
Individuals who smoke are 1.2 times more likely to develop obesity. Smoking often increases appetite, leading to overeating and weight gain, which can result in obesity.
Certain Medications (e.g., Antidepressants)
Some medications for chronic conditions, particularly antidepressants, may increase appetite and lead to weight gain if not carefully monitored.
Number of Births and Short Intervals Between Pregnancies
An increase in the number of births and shorter intervals between them can lead to weight gain in women, creating a foundation for obesity.
Inadequate Breastfeeding
Insufficient intake of breast milk can result in weaker immune systems and poorly developed metabolic and hormonal processes, increasing the risk of obesity later in life.
How Is Obesity Diagnosed?
The most practical method to diagnose obesity is by calculating the Body Mass Index (BMI). A healthcare provider listens to the patient’s medical history and current health issues. In addition to BMI, measuring waist circumference is crucial, as it helps assess the risk of diseases associated with obesity.
How Is Obesity Calculated?
Obesity is calculated using the Body Mass Index (BMI), a measurement method where the body weight in kilograms is divided by the square of height in meters.
For example:
- For an individual weighing 75 kilograms and standing 1.70 meters tall:
75 kg÷(1.70 m×1.70 m)=25.9575 \, \text{kg} \div (1.70 \, \text{m} \times 1.70 \, \text{m}) = 25.95 Result: Overweight
- For an individual weighing 90 kilograms and standing 1.70 meters tall:
90 kg÷(1.70 m×1.70 m)=31.1490 \, \text{kg} \div (1.70 \, \text{m} \times 1.70 \, \text{m}) = 31.14Result: Obesity – Increased risk for diabetes and other conditions
BMI Classification
Based on BMI, the following six categories are defined:
- Underweight: <18.5
- Normal Weight: 18.5–24.9
- Overweight: 25–29.9 (Slightly increased risk for diabetes and heart disease)
- Obese Class 1 (Obesity): 30–34.9 (Increasing risk of diabetes and other diseases)
- Obese Class 2 (Morbid Obesity): 35–39.9
- Obese Class 3 (Super Morbid Obesity): >40 (High risk of life-threatening diseases)
A BMI of over 30 is categorized as obesity, while a BMI of over 40 is classified as morbid obesity, and over 50 as super morbid obesity.
What is Obesity?
Additional Symptoms of Obesity
Obese individuals may also experience the following symptoms:
- Snoring
- Excessive sweating
- Sleep apnea
- Joint and back pain
- Skin infections due to irritation
- Shortness of breath even with minimal activity
These symptoms, combined with a high BMI, can confirm the diagnosis of obesity and indicate the need for medical attention.
How Is Obesity Treated?
Obesity can often be treated without surgical intervention through exercise, a regular diet program, habit changes, and medication. However, for unresolved obesity problems, bariatric surgery, such as sleeve gastrectomy, is an effective option. Obesity treatment methods include:
Healthy and Medical Nutrition
When the body consumes more energy than it uses, the excess is stored as fat. Unless there is an underlying genetic or metabolic disorder, this imbalance is often due to excessive food intake, low energy expenditure, or both. The first step in treatment is medical nutrition. Dietitians develop personalized diet plans specifying the sources and frequency of calorie intake.
Exercise
Rather than strictly adhering to a diet list, it’s essential to educate individuals on creating flexible, sustainable, and personalized routines that can become a lifestyle. Alongside proper nutrition, regular exercise plays a vital role in obesity treatment. Medical methods may also complement this approach.
Hormone Therapy
The balance of hormones is crucial in obesity treatment. Hormones regulate hunger, satiety, and the body’s use of sugar, proteins, and fats. They also influence the metabolic response to stress and exercise. Hormonal imbalances can contribute to obesity, but addressing the underlying endocrine issues through medication or surgery can help restore weight control.
In addition, the GLP-1 hormone, located in the small intestine, plays a key role in regulating insulin secretion and signaling satiety to the brain. Medications targeting GLP-1 can enhance feelings of fullness, reduce hunger, and aid in obesity treatment.
What is Obesity?
Bariatric Surgery
Surgery is another option for obesity treatment. While diet and exercise alone may yield limited results, bariatric surgery has a high success rate. It not only improves aesthetic appearance but also enhances quality of life. By achieving significant weight loss through surgery, individuals can lower their risk of cardiovascular disease, psychological disorders, and sleep apnea. Bariatric surgery is tailored to each patient, and with proper planning, patients can return to work and social life soon after the procedure and achieve their ideal weight.
Types of Bariatric Surgery
An obesity surgeon will provide information about all available bariatric surgery methods, which include:
- Sleeve Gastrectomy (Tube Stomach Surgery)
- Gastric Bypass Surgery
- Mini Gastric Bypass
- Duodenal Switch
Sleeve Gastrectomy (Tube Stomach Surgery)
Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the surgical methods used for individuals with morbid obesity when diet and exercise prove insufficient. In this procedure, a significant portion of the stomach is removed, creating a system that continues with the esophagus and intestines. This reduces the stomach’s capacity, helping individuals consume less food and feel full sooner.
By addressing obesity through these methods, patients can achieve long-term success in weight management, improve their health, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Diseases Caused by Obesity
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol and lipid levels
- Fatty liver disease
- Cardiovascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis
- Joint disorders
- Sleep apnea
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and irregular menstrual cycles in women
- Excessive body hair (hirsutism)
- Buried penis and hormonal disorders in boys
- Depression
- Certain types of cancer
How to Prevent Obesity
To lose excess weight and maintain weight control, it is essential to seek expert guidance and establish an appropriate treatment plan. Increasing physical activity, incorporating daily walks and exercises into routines, and adopting healthier lifestyle habits are crucial. Other preventative methods include:
- Avoiding processed, calorie-dense, long-shelf-life foods
- Reducing sugar intake and monitoring daily salt consumption
- Opting for healthy cooking methods
- Drinking adequate water throughout the day
- Changing eating habits, eating slowly, and savoring meals
- Minimizing saturated fat intake
- Maintaining a balanced diet with variety from all food groups
- Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables
- Avoiding alcohol consumption
Frequently Asked Questions About Obesity
What is the term for someone with obesity?
Individuals with obesity are referred to as “obese.”
What does obesity lead to?
Obesity, often resulting from unhealthy eating habits combined with a sedentary lifestyle, serves as a starting point for numerous health problems. These include:
- Sleep apnea
- Asthma
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Gallbladder diseases
- Gout
- Fatty liver disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Irregular menstruation
- Breathing difficulties
- Migraines
- Various types of cancer
Additionally, the psychological impact of obesity, stemming from body image issues, can exacerbate mental health problems.
Key aspects of obesity treatment?
Obesity is a chronic but treatable condition that significantly reduces quality of life. Personalized treatment is crucial and may include:
- Medical nutrition (diet therapy)
- Exercise therapy
- Behavioral therapy
- Medication
- Surgical interventions
A collaborative approach involving physicians, dietitians, psychologists, and physiotherapists is essential. Bariatric surgery is also an effective option for some patients.
Can obesity cause cancer?
Yes, obesity increases cancer risk and can pave the way for various types, including breast, pancreatic, colorectal, uterine, and esophageal cancers.
Is obesity fatal?
Obesity is a significant risk factor for numerous diseases and premature death. For instance, a 25-year-old man with obesity may experience a 22% reduction in life expectancy, shortening his lifespan by approximately 12 years.
At what age does obesity occur?
Obesity can occur at any age, but it is more prevalent among women. Factors such as pregnancy, lactation-related overeating, and hormonal changes like increased estrogen levels contribute to easier weight gain. Childhood and adolescent obesity have also increased significantly due to unhealthy eating habits.
Why do people gain weight?
Weight gain is often influenced by:
- Genetic predisposition
- Education level
- Lifestyle and work conditions
- Eating speed and food choices
- Consumption of fast food and alcohol
- Psychological factors
- Hormonal changes, such as those during menstruation or menopause
What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery involves surgical interventions on the digestive system to treat obesity. The type of surgery varies depending on the patient’s needs.
Who is eligible for bariatric surgery?
Patients must meet the following criteria:
- BMI of 40 kg/m² or higher, or 35–40 kg/m² with associated conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
- Aged 18–65
- Obesity present for at least three years
- No hormonal disorders causing obesity
- Failure to lose weight through diet and medication for at least one year
- No chronic alcohol or substance abuse
- Ability to understand the risks and postoperative requirements
- Willingness to cooperate with the surgical team
Does obesity lead to psychological issues?
Yes, obesity negatively impacts mental health, often leading to depression and other psychiatric disorders. Studies show a direct correlation between obesity and decreased self-esteem.
Can obesity be treated psychologically?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective in obesity treatment. CBT helps patients identify and restructure dysfunctional thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to eating and dieting.
Is obesity common in children?
Yes, obesity is increasingly common in children due to genetic predisposition and unhealthy eating habits. It leads to physical and psychological issues stemming from excessive fat accumulation.
Does uncontrolled internet use contribute to childhood obesity?
Yes, excessive internet use during childhood can lead to obesity. Prolonged screen time promotes physical inactivity and disrupts eating habits, causing rapid weight gain.
How can childhood obesity be prevented?
- Regular pediatric check-ups
- Controlled feeding routines
- Avoid feeding during screen time
- Encourage family meals
- Minimize exposure to fast food and sugary snacks
- Promote sports and physical activities
Why should obesity be feared?
Obesity reduces lung capacity by 20–30%, and when combined with smoking or chronic bronchitis, breathing becomes nearly impossible. Obesity also increases the risk of diabetes by 40 times and hypertension by 4–5 times, among other severe health risks.
Does obesity increase kidney stone risk?
Yes, obesity significantly raises the risk of kidney stones. Personalized diet plans and regular exercise can help mitigate this risk.
How does weight loss improve health?
Losing 5–10 kg can reduce the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, increase life expectancy, and significantly improve overall health and quality of life.
Are there medications for obesity?
Yes, but they must be prescribed by an endocrinologist. Over-the-counter products marketed as “obesity drugs” should never be used without medical advice.