Overweight and obesity are conditions characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat, which may pose risks to health. These conditions are usually determined by calculating the Body Mass Index (BMI), a simple tool used to classify individuals based on their weight relative to their height.
Key Definitions:
Overweight:
A person is classified as overweight when their BMI falls between 25 and 29.9. This indicates that they have more body weight than is considered healthy for their height.Obesity:
Obesity is defined as having a BMI of 30 or higher. It is typically divided into three classes based on severity:- Class 1: BMI of 30–34.9
- Class 2: BMI of 35–39.9
- Class 3: BMI of 40 or higher (also known as “severe” or “morbid obesity”).
Causes of Overweight and Obesity:
- Lifestyle factors: Excess calorie intake, sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise.
- Genetics: Family history of obesity can increase the likelihood.
- Medical conditions: Hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or certain medications.
- Psychological factors: Stress, emotional eating, or depression.
Health Risks:
- Cardiovascular diseases: Hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
- Type 2 diabetes: Increased insulin resistance.
- Joint problems: Osteoarthritis due to excess weight.
- Sleep disorders: Sleep apnea.
- Certain cancers: Breast, colon, and endometrial cancer.
- Reduced quality of life: Physical limitations, social stigma, and mental health challenges.
Prevention and Management:
- Healthy diet: Balanced meals with appropriate portion sizes, reduced intake of sugar, and processed foods.
- Physical activity: At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week.
- Behavioral changes: Managing stress and improving sleep patterns.
- Medical interventions: Medications or weight-loss surgery (bariatric surgery) in severe cases.