Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing a number of health conditions, including:
Type 2 diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). In people with type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or the cells in the body don't respond properly to insulin, which is necessary for transporting glucose from the blood into the cells for energy. This results in high blood sugar levels, which can lead to a range of health problems if left untreated. Risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include obesity, physical inactivity, family history of the disease, and advancing age. The main treatment for type 2 diabetes is lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise, and can be managed with medications as well.
Cardiovascular disease: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a class of diseases that involve the heart or blood vessels. The most common types of CVD include coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease (such as stroke), and peripheral artery disease. Risk factors for CVD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and a family history of the disease. Symptoms of CVD can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. CVD can often be prevented or managed through lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and not smoking. Medications, such as statins and blood pressure drugs, may also be prescribed to help manage the disease.
High blood pressure: High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the walls of the blood vessels is consistently too high. This can put a strain on the heart and blood vessels and can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. High blood pressure is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms and can go undiagnosed for many years. It is typically diagnosed through a measurement of blood pressure taken by a healthcare professional, and is often treated with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management, as well as medication.
Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while sleeping. These pauses, called apneas, can last from a few seconds to several minutes, and can occur up to hundreds of times per night. The lack of oxygen from the apneas can cause a person to wake up briefly multiple times throughout the night, resulting in poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness. There are two main types of sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) which is caused by a blockage of the airway, typically when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, and Central sleep apnea (CSA), which occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Certain types of cancer: Obesity is linked to an increased risk of developing cancer of the uterus, breast, colon, rectum, kidney, and esophagus.
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage, bones, and surrounding tissues of a joint. It is the most common type of arthritis and typically affects weight-bearing joints, such as the hips, knees, and spine, as well as the hands and feet. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the affected joint. It is more common in people over the age of 50, but can also occur in younger people as a result of injury or other joint disorders. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include obesity, injury, and certain genetic factors. Treatment options include medications, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgery.
Gallbladder disease: Gallbladder disease is a general term used to describe any medical condition that affects the gallbladder, a small organ located just below the liver. The most common types of gallbladder disease are cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) and gallstones. Symptoms of gallbladder disease may include pain in the upper right or middle of the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, fever, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Some people may have gallbladder disease and not experience any symptoms. In many cases, gallbladder disease is diagnosed using imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan or MRI. Treatment options for gallbladder disease can include medications, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery to remove the gallbladder.
Fatty liver disease: Fatty liver disease is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver, leading to inflammation and damage. The most common form of fatty liver disease is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which occurs when fat accumulates in the liver of people who drink little or no alcohol. NAFLD is a spectrum of disorders, and can range from simple fatty liver (steatosis) to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. NAFLD is becoming an increasing public health concern worldwide and has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss and regular exercise, can help to improve the symptoms and reduce the progression of NAFLD. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed.
It is important to note that not all people that are overweight or obese will develop these conditions and other factors like genetics, lifestyle, and overall health are also play a role.
