What is Obesity?
Obesity is a complex and chronic disease characterized by the accumulation of excessive and abnormal fat in the body that can impair health. It is far beyond a mere aesthetic issue and is an important risk factor that predisposes individuals to many serious health problems such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and certain types of cancer. Obesity is not a matter of weak willpower; it is a condition that involves genetic, environmental, socio-cultural, and psychological factors working together and requires medical treatment.
How is Obesity Evaluated? - Body Mass Index (BMI)
The most commonly used method for assessing obesity is Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is obtained by dividing a person's body weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²).
According to the World Health Organization classification, BMI values are interpreted as follows:
- Below 18.5: Underweight
- 18.5 – 24.9: Normal weight
- 25.0 – 29.9: Overweight
- 30.0 – 39.9: Obese
- 40.0 and above: Morbid (Severe) Obesity
In addition to BMI, waist circumference measurement, which is an indicator of intra-abdominal fat, is also an important determinant in assessing the risk of heart diseases and diabetes.
Health Problems Caused by Obesity
Excess body fat can negatively affect almost every system in the body. The main health issues directly related to obesity include:
- Type 2 Diabetes and Insulin Resistance
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- High Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels (Hyperlipidemia)
- Coronary Artery Disease, Heart Failure, and Stroke
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Cirrhosis
- Sleep Apnea and Other Respiratory Problems
- Joint Osteoarthritis (Osteoarthritis)
- Increased risk of certain cancers such as breast, colon, uterus, and prostate
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)
Diagnosis and Treatment Approach
Obesity is diagnosed through a comprehensive medical assessment that includes BMI and waist circumference measurements, along with a detailed medical history and blood tests to identify underlying health issues (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).
Obesity treatment is a long-term process aimed not only at losing weight but also at maintaining a healthy weight. The treatment is tailored to the individual and requires a multidisciplinary approach:
- Medical Nutrition Therapy: Developing a sustainable and balanced nutrition program suitable for the person's lifestyle and health status by a physician or dietitian.
- Exercise Program: Regular physical activity helps with weight loss and reduces obesity-related risks.
- Behavioral Change Therapy: Gaining professional support to understand the psychological reasons behind eating habits and to develop healthy lifestyle habits.
- Medication Therapy: For suitable patients, medications that assist in weight management may be used under physician supervision alongside lifestyle changes.
- Surgical Treatment (Bariatric Surgery): Surgical methods are an effective treatment option for patients with very high BMI who do not respond to lifestyle modifications.
Obesity management is a process that can be successful with patient determination and close monitoring by the physician. Every step taken is an important investment for a healthier and higher quality life.
This content has been translated using artificial intelligence technology.