Medical Conditions Of Obese People

Approximately 60 percent of American adults are considered overweight, according to the University of California, San Francisco, Medical Center. Of the 60 percent, one fourth are considered obese, a condition in which body weight and body fat exceed healthy ranges. An obese condition increases the risk for health problems such as cardiovascular disorders, musculo-skeletal conditions and emotional problems. Many of these medical conditions are considered life threatening.

Definition and Factors

Your body weight is made up of lean body tissue and body fat. Healthy body fat percentages range between 8 to 15 percent for men and 18 to 25 percent for women. Obesity is defined as excess body fat ranges above 30 percent. The excess body fat strains your cardiovascular and musculo-skeletal systems, resulting in an increased risk for medical problems.
Factors contributing to obesity include genetics, environment and metabolic disorders. Genetic tendencies toward lower metabolic function restrict the rate at which calories are burned, resulting in higher amounts of stored fat. Unhealthy lifestyles, including poor nutrition and inactivity, further restrict metabolic rates, adding to increases in body weight and body fat.

Cardiovascular Conditions

Obesity strains your heart's ability to pump and circulate blood throughout your body. Obesity as a result of an unhealthy diet and inactivity causes plaque buildup and high blood pressure. The reduced blood flow leads to chest pain and an increased risk for heart attacks and strokes. Obesity also has been tied to higher incidences of diabetes and cancer. The Weight Control Information Network estimates that there are 112,000 cardiovascular deaths attributed to obesity annually.

Musculo-Skeletal Conditions

Excess body weight and inactivity cause problems affecting your muscles, joints and bones. Increased stresses on your knees cause joint problems such as osteoarthritis, considered the leading cause of disability in adults over age 65. Obese individuals are less likely to exercise, resulting in weakened lower-body muscles, adding to the inability to carry higher body weights. Increased amounts of body fat lead to compressed nerves. When combined with muscle weakness, additional problems such as carpal tunnel, rotator cuff and lower back pain are more likely to occur.

Emotional Conditions

Obese individuals are more likely to suffer from depression and low self-esteem. Incidences of size discrimination in adults and bullying in children are more likely to occur, resulting in further emotional problems. Increased stress and anxiety from emotional problems can lead to further medical problems.