What Is Obesity?
Obesity is a chronic disease that is rapidly increasing in both developed and developing countries, leading to serious health problems. If left untreated, it can cause fatal conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. It also negatively affects an individual’s quality of life by causing aesthetic concerns and psychological issues.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) data, the obesity rate worldwide has tripled in the last 40 years. As of 2016, 1.9 billion adults are overweight, and of these, 650 million are classified as obese. In Turkey, according to Ministry of Health data, the obesity rate is 20.5% in men, 41.0% in women, and 30.3% in the general population.
Table Of Contents
Who Is Considered Obese?
Obesity is not only about excess weight but also about whether body weight is proportional to height. To determine this, the Body Mass Index (BMI) is used.
BMI Calculation Formula:
BMI = Body weight (kg) / Height (m)²
- 30 kg/m² and above: Obese
- 40 kg/m² and above: Morbidly obese
- 50 kg/m² and above: Super obese
In addition to BMI, factors such as age, gender, daily activity level, waist-to-hip ratio, subcutaneous fat thickness, and muscle mass are also considered in the evaluation.
What Are the Causes of Obesity?
The main cause of obesity is consuming more calories than the body burns. In addition, the following factors can also trigger weight gain:
- Genetic Factors: Children of obese parents are more likely to develop obesity in adulthood.
- Hormonal Disorders: Conditions such as thyroid diseases and insulin resistance can lead to weight gain.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity increases fat accumulation.
- Irregular and Unhealthy Eating Habits: Excessive consumption of fast food, high-calorie, and sugary foods leads to weight gain.
What Diseases Can Obesity Lead To?
Obesity is not just an excess weight problem but also a serious health issue that affects many vital organs. Diseases that may develop due to obesity include:
- Type 2 Diabetes: As fat increases, insulin resistance develops, causing blood sugar levels to rise.
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Excess weight can lead to artery blockages and high blood pressure.
- Hypertension: Damage to blood vessels can result in high blood pressure.
- Sleep Apnea: Narrowing of the airways can cause breathing pauses during sleep.
- Psychological Issues: Obesity can lead to depression, low self-esteem, and other psychological problems.
- Cancer: Obesity increases the risk of prostate and colon cancer in men, and breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancer in women.
- Infertility: Obesity can negatively affect reproductive health and increase the risk of infertility.
How Is Obesity Treated?
There are various methods for treating obesity. The most suitable treatment option should be determined based on the patient’s overall health, body mass index (BMI), and weight loss goals.
Diet and Exercise
Adopting healthy eating habits and engaging in regular physical activity are key components in the treatment of obesity. However, these alone may not be sufficient for individuals with severe obesity.
Medications
Certain medications prescribed under medical supervision can help with weight loss by suppressing appetite or reducing fat absorption. However, medications should be used as a supportive treatment and in conjunction with lifestyle changes.
Gastric Balloon (Non-Surgical Alternative)
The gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight loss method that consists of a silicone balloon placed inside the stomach. The balloon occupies space in the stomach, increasing the feeling of fullness and helping with portion control. It is a non-surgical obesity treatment option.
There are two types: the endoscopically placed gastric balloon and the swallowable gastric balloon. The swallowable gastric balloon is inflated with water and placed in the stomach, and after a certain period, it is naturally passed through the digestive system. The endoscopic gastric balloon is removed after a certain period through another endoscopic procedure.
The balloon can stay in the stomach for 6 to 12 months, providing support during the weight loss process. It is particularly effective for patients who do not wish to undergo surgery or are not suitable for surgical interventions.
Obesity Surgery
Surgical procedures such as gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass are effective and permanent weight loss methods for individuals with severe obesity. These surgeries work by reducing stomach volume or limiting nutrient absorption.
These surgeries are recommended for individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, or for those with a BMI of 35 or more and additional health conditions.
You can find detailed information about obesity treatments on this page.
Obesity is definitely a treatable condition.
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