Obesity is a growing medical concern in India, which now ranks as the third most obese country globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms about the increasing obesity rates among young people, with one in eight individuals affected.
The causes of obesity range from genetic factors to lifestyle choices. Obesity significantly increases the risk of serious health issues. According to WHO, a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 30 classifies an adult as obese, though this threshold differs for children due to varying heights. WHO warns that overweight individuals are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
5 Life-Threatening Diseases Caused by Obesity
Here are five serious health problems linked to obesity:
Type 2 Diabetes Excessive body fat can lead to insulin resistance, causing high blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes. WHO and the National Institutes of Health highlight the strong link between obesity and diabetes.
Sleep Apnea Obesity can cause sleep apnea, a potentially fatal disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This condition is more common in obese individuals due to excess fat in the neck area.
Heart Disease Obesity contributes to heart disease by causing high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Excess body fat can lead to the buildup of fat in arteries, narrowing them and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Kidney Disease The National Kidney Foundation states that obesity forces the kidneys to work harder to eliminate waste, which can disrupt their normal function. This increased workload can lead to kidney stones and kidney failure.
Osteoarthritis According to the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, obesity is a risk factor for osteoarthritis. This condition involves decreased bone density and mass, raising the risk of fractures. Excess weight can particularly affect the knees and hand joints, leading to osteoarthritis.
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If you are struggling with obesity, consult a medical expert to create a personalized weight loss plan. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall well-being and preventing obesity-related diseases.
Manasa