7 Alarming Health Conditions Associated With Obesity : Know the Risks

It is estimated that obesity is linked to over 30 different health conditions. This article will discuss seven of the most common health conditions associated with obesity. Keep reading to learn more!

1. Type 2 Diabetes:

People with obesity are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, a condition in which the body does not properly process sugar from food. This can lead to serious long-term health issues such as kidney failure, blindness and nerve damage.

2. Heart Disease:

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure—all of which can cause major medical problems if left untreated. Researchers have found that being overweight or obese increases a person's risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) by up to 28 per cent compared to those with a healthy bodyweight, even if they have healthy blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

3. Certain Cancers:

Obesity increases the risk for certain types of cancer, including breast and colorectal cancers. Additionally, people who are overweight or obese tend to have a poorer prognosis when they do develop cancer than those at a healthy weight level.

4. Sleep Apnea:

This condition is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, which can lead to excessive daytime fatigue. People with obesity are more likely to experience sleep apnea due to their increased fat tissue around the airway. People with severe sleep apnea can suffer from chronic fatigue and reduced cognitive function, as their body is not getting the oxygen it needs during the night. Furthermore, those who suffer from sleep apnea can have an increased risk for hypertension, heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular issues. In addition, risk for accidents or injury due to falls increases when people experience long periods of mild or no breathing throughout the night. 

5. Osteoarthritis:

Excess weight can increase the strain on joints, leading to a greater risk of developing osteoarthritis (OA). In fact, it is estimated that 60% of people with knee OA are overweight or obese.

6. Gallbladder Disease:

Individuals who have obesity are also at an increased risk for gallbladder disease—a condition in which the gallbladder doesn’t work properly and can cause abdominal pain and digestive issues.

7. Mental Health Issues:

People with obesity are at an increased risk for depression, anxiety and other mental health issues due to the stigma that is often associated with being overweight or obese. Additionally, these individuals may also experience lower self-esteem and body image issues due to their weight.

It is important to note that although obesity can put someone at a greater risk of developing some of these health conditions, it does not necessarily mean they will develop them. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a nutritious diet in order to reduce your chances of developing any of these conditions. If you have struggled with losing weight or keeping it off, you may be a candidate for bariatric surgery. Visit www.DrWadiwala.com for more information and to schedule a consultation.