Obesity
Obesity is a chronic, complex disease characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat that impairs health. It is not simply a lifestyle issue but a recognized medical condition involving genetic, hormonal, behavioral, and environmental factors. Obesity increases the risk of numerous serious conditions including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, and joint problems. Body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher is commonly used to define obesity, though waist circumference and body composition also matter.
Symptoms
Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen; shortness of breath, especially with physical activity; fatigue and low stamina; joint and back pain; snoring or sleep apnea; difficulty with physical tasks; excessive sweating; skin fold irritation or infections; low self-esteem or depression; and in children, slowed growth or early puberty. Obesity itself may not cause direct symptoms, but its associated conditions often do.
Treatments
Treatment is multifaceted and individualized. Options include intensive lifestyle modifications (structured diet, physical activity, and behavioral therapy), medical nutrition therapy, weight management programs, FDA-approved anti-obesity medications (GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide, orlistat, phentermine/topiramate), and metabolic and bariatric surgery (gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric banding) for severe obesity. Long-term follow-up and support are essential, as obesity is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management.
Risk Factors
Genetics and family history, high-calorie and processed food diets, physical inactivity, lack of sleep, certain medications (antidepressants, steroids), aging, pregnancy, quitting smoking, socioeconomic factors including limited access to healthy foods, psychological factors including stress and emotional eating, and medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and Cushing's syndrome.
Prevalence
Obesity affects approximately 42% of U.S. adults and 20% of children and adolescents. Globally, over 1 billion people are affected, including 650 million adults, 340 million adolescents, and 39 million children. Prevalence has nearly tripled worldwide since 1975 and continues to rise, making it one of the most significant public health challenges of the 21st century.
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