Excess Body Weight and Obesity

Obesity is a complex disease associated with excess adipose tissue. It is not merely a cosmetic issue; it also increases the risk of developing various diseases and health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, osteoarthritis, and sleep apnea syndrome.

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a way of calculating the ratio of weight to height, which is used to classify adults as overweight or obese. It is defined as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height (kg/m²). According to the World Health Organization’s definition, a BMI of 25 or higher indicates that a person is overweight.

Although genetic, hormonal, and behavioral factors influence body weight, obesity results from consuming more calories than are burned through daily exercise and activities. The body stores these excess calories as fat. A sedentary lifestyle results in more calories per 24-hour period than one would burn if engaging in some form of exercise or intense physical activity. Combined with a poor diet that involves consuming more calories, weight gain is inevitable.

Excess body weight also affects quality of life.

Many people avoid participating in various activities or do not frequent public places, and they may also face social discrimination. Many people who are overweight suffer from depression, disability, sexual problems, guilt and shame, social exclusion, and reduced effectiveness in their professional lives.

Medical supervision can help with weight loss so that it is done properly and safely. The endocrinologist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation by reviewing your medical history, performing a physical exam, calculating your BMI and other anthropometric indices, measuring your waist circumference, and assessing other health issues. Personalized blood tests or other examinations may be requested. This information will help the doctor determine how much weight needs to be lost and whether there are any other health issues.

Nutrition counseling, exercise, and lifestyle changes should be included in all medical approaches to weight loss for patients with a BMI >25 kg/m². In addition, medication may be used for a higher BMI >27 kg/m² with comorbidities or >30 kg/m². Finally, for very high BMI, bariatric surgery is indicated in combination with lifestyle changes, with the goal of reducing food intake and increasing physical activity.