Manage Your Account

Obesity

Definition

Obesity is a medical condition resulting from the accumulation of excess body weight to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health, resulting in diminished life expectancy and/or increased health problems. Obesity is best defined by the Body Mass Index (BMI), a measurement based upon height and weight. A BMI of 25-30 is defined as "overweight", and a BMI over 30 defines "obesity".

Burden of Obesity

Approximately 127 million adults in the U.S. are considered overweight; 60 million are obese; and 9 million are severely obese. The economic burden of obesity is estimated at greater than $70 billion annually! Obesity is a leading preventable cause of illness and death worldwide. In the U.S. obesity is estimated to cause an excess of 112,000 to 365,000 deaths per year, and reduces life expectancy by 6-7 years, on average.

Causes

Although some cases of obesity are associated with genetic abnormalities, endocrine disorders (e.g., diabetes, hypothyroidism), medications or psychiatric illness; the most common cause is a combination of excessive dietary calories, physical inactivity, and genetic susceptibility. A strong association between obesity and fast-food and sweetened drink consumption has been identified. A worldwide shift toward less physical activity and a more sedentary lifestyle plays a significant role in obesity. An estimated 60% of the population gets insufficient exercise. Excessive television watching is associated with risk of obesity in both children and adults.

Associated Problems

Obesity results in increased risk for certain diseases, especially heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, certain cancers and osteoarthritis. The association of obesity with diabetes is especially strong, including 64% of men and 77% of women with diabetes. Obesity also contributes to inflammation in the blood vessel lining and increased blood clotting tendencies that may contribute to heart attack. Fatty deposits in the liver may result in elevated liver enzymes levels, and can be especially problematic with excessive alcohol consumption. Excessive weight results in increased wear and tear on weight-bearing joints and increased risk for osteoarthritis.

Treatment

The primary treatment for obesity is dieting and exercise. Long-term maintenance of weight loss from dieting ranges from 2-20%; and more structured programs, e.g., Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, etc., may be of benefit. Exercise burns calories stored in fat cells, which in combination with decreased caloric intake, can result in weight loss. The American Heart Association recommends a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 days/week to maintain good health. Sustained weight loss generally requires permanent life-style changes. Only two medications are currently FDA approved for long term use for weight loss: orlistat (Xenical), which reduces intestinal fat absorption; and sibutramine (Meridia), which acts in the brain neurotransmitters to suppress appetite. Weight loss with these drugs is modest, and both medications may have associated side effects. Weight loss (bariatric) surgery involves procedures to reduce the volume of the stomach. Lap band surgery is less invasive, reversible, and associated with fewer complications. Gastric bypass surgery (removal or bypass of portions of the stomach) is not reversible and is associated with more complications.

Benefits of Weight Loss

Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight will result in improved quality of life, enhanced self image, and a potentially longer lifespan.

If you need help with Obesity please call us and make an appointment at one of or offices or schedule online.

Top of Page