About Obesity

Obesity, a chronic disease:

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as “abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health.” Obesity is a complex medical condition that involves the accumulation of excess body fat that increases the risk of developing numerous health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer, and many others. In 2013, the American Medical Association (AMA) recognized obesity as a disease, citing the need for increased medical attention and funding for research and treatment. Other major medical organizations, including the World Obesity Federation and the European Association for the Study of Obesity, also classify obesity as a disease. The recognition of obesity as a disease has important implications for healthcare providers and policy makers. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive approaches to obesity prevention and treatment, including both individual and societal-level interventions. It also encourages healthcare providers to view obesity as a medical condition that requires specialized care and attention.

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What causes overweight and obesity?

Obesity is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Genetics play a role in determining a person’s susceptibility to obesity, but environmental factors such as diet, physical activity levels, and socioeconomic status also contribute to the development of obesity.

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What are the health consequences of obesity?

As obesity is a complex medical condition that involves the accumulation of excess body, it increases the risk of developing numerous health problems including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and certain cancers. It can also lead to physical and mental health problems such as sleep apnea, joint pain, depression, anxiety, and decreased quality of life.

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Global obesity trends:

Obesity is a major public health concern worldwide, with a significant impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity has nearly tripled since 1975. In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults (18 years and older) were overweight, of which over 650 million were obese. In addition, 38 million children under the age of five were overweight or obese in 2019. Obesity prevalence varies by country and region, but the trend is generally increasing worldwide.

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