According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) a person who is obese has an excess amount of body fat. In comparison, people defined as overweight weigh too much, but the additional pounds may be due not only to fat but to muscle, bone and body water.
Obesity develops over an extended period of time when you regularly eat more calories that you are burning. While anyone, including children, can become obese, your vulnerability increases with age, due to hormonal and lifestyle considerations. Obesity can raise your risk of a number of serious diseases and health issues.
Cancer
Obesity is associated with a higher risk of several types of cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Obese men are more likely than men of average weight to develop cancers of the prostate, colon or rectum. Women who are considered obese are more apt to be diagnosed with cancer of the breast, gallbladder, uterus, cervix or ovaries.
Heart Disease
The American Heart Association (AHA) says obesity is regarded as a major risk factor for coronary heart disease that may lead to heart attack and stroke. The AHA says this is because obesity causes high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Obesity may bring on diabetes, which can increase the risk of heart disease in some people.
Joint Problems
People who are obese are more likely to develop osteoarthritis and gout--diseases that cause deterioration of the joints--according to the Mayo Clinic. This may be attributed to excess weight that is placed on the joints.
Additonal Health Risks
The NIH says other diseases and conditions associated with obesity include gallbladder disease and gallstones and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter fails to close securely and stomach contents leak back into the esophagus. Obesity may also lead to breathing difficulties, such as sleep apnea. This condition causes breathing to stop for a brief period during sleep.
Mental Health
Since American culture places such great importance on physical appearance and encourages thinness, the Mayo Clinic points out that people who are obese may feel unattractive, experience emotional upset and be discriminated against. This may result in feelings of shame or rejection that can cause depression.
Member Comments