Overweight and Obesity

Overweight and Obesity

Overweight and obesity is defined as abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat due to an imbalance between the energy intake from food and the energy expended in the body.

How is obesity measured?

• Waist circumference: it is performed by wrapping the measuring tape at a midpoint between the upper end of the femur bone and the lower margin of the last rib. For the accurate measurement; measure the waist after breathing out. Make sure you are not holding your breath or trying to suck in your stomach.

Classification:

• Underweight:
• Women: Less than 64 cm
• Men: Less than 78 cm
• Disease Risk: No risk
• Ideal Weight:
• Women: 64-80 cm
• Men: 78-94 cm
• Disease Risk: No risk
• Overweight:
• Women: 80-88 cm
• Men: 94-102 cm
• Disease Risk: Medium risk
• Obesity Class 1:
• Women: More than 88 cm
• Men: More than 102 cm
• Disease Risk: High risk

Body mass index (BMI):

Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of the relationship between weight and height. By calculating it, it will be determined to what extent an individual enjoys an ideal healthy weight. This calculation applies to both men and women.

BMI Formula:

BMI = Weight (kg) / Height (m²)

Body Mass Index (BMI) Classifications

• Underweight: BMI less than 18.4
• Normal weight: BMI 18.4 - 24.9
• Overweight: BMI 25 - 29.9
• Obese (Class 1): BMI 30 - 34.9
• Obese (Class 2): BMI 35 - 39.9
• Extreme obesity: BMI 40 and above

Causes of Overweight and Obesity

• Genetic Factors:
• Family history of obesity.
• Lifestyle Factors:
• Poor dietary habits (e.g., high calorie intake).
• Physical inactivity.
• Environmental Factors:
• Lack of access to healthy foods and exercise facilities.
• Medical Conditions:
• Hypothyroidism and Cushing's syndrome.
• Medications:
• Certain drugs, such as steroids and antidepressants.

Health Risks Associated with Overweight and Obesity

• Heart Disease and Stroke: Higher risk of atherosclerosis.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.
• High Blood Pressure: Increased workload on the heart and arteries.
• Sleep Apnea: Breathing disruptions during sleep.
• Joint Issues: Osteoarthritis and joint pain due to excess weight.
• Cancers: Increased risk of certain cancers, such as breast and colon cancer.

Prevention of Overweight and Obesity

• Healthy Diet:
• Focus on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods.
• Physical Activity:
• At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Monitor Weight:
• Regular weight checks.
• Adequate Sleep:
• Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night.
• Limit Screen Time:
• Reduce sedentary behaviors.

Treatment Options

• Lifestyle Modifications:
• Nutritional counseling and structured exercise programs.
• Medications:
• Prescribed for individuals who do not respond to lifestyle changes alone.
• Surgery:
• Bariatric procedures for severe obesity.