Understanding Obesity
Being overweight is the most common medical disorder in America. This unhealthy, growing trend is considered to be a major public health threat because it can be linked to many disabling, life-threatening diseases. It is estimated that 35% of Americans are overweight while another 27% are obese.
Obesity becomes “morbid” when it reaches the point of significantly increasing the risk of one or more obesity-related health conditions. These can result in significant physical disability or even death. Morbid obesity is typically defined as being 100 pounds or more over ideal body weight or have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater. BMI does not actually measure body fat, but generally correlates well with the degree of obesity.
The reasons for obesity are multiple and complex. Despite conventional wisdom, obesity is not simply a result of overeating. Research has shown that in many cases the underlying causes of obesity are genetic and environmental factors. Studies have demonstrated that once the problem is established, efforts such as dieting and exercise programs have a limited ability to provide effective long-term relief.
Science continues to search for answers. But until the disease is better understood, the control of excess weight is something patients must aim for their entire lives. It is very important to understand that ALL current medical intervention, including weight loss surgery, should not be considered medical cures. Rather, they are attempts to reduce the effects of excessive weight and alleviate the serious physical, emotional and social consequences of the disease. |
