Health conditions associated with obesity

Although obesity can limit your physical ability to carry out day to day activities, it can also lead to much deeper issues. There are many serious health risks and diseases associated with obesity.

The link between obesity and major health conditions

Obese people are at a higher risk of developing serious health conditions than people who are not obese.

A few of the top health conditions linked to obesity include:

1. Heart disease and stroke

Compared to people who are not obese, people with obesity are more likely to have high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol, angina (chest pain caused by decreased oxygen to the heart) and sudden death from heart disease or stroke without any signs or symptoms.

2. Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a major cause of early death, heart disease, stroke and blindness. Overweight people are twice as likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to those who are not overweight.

3. Cancer

Obesity is associated with many different types of cancer. Overweight women are more likely to develop certain cancers, including cancer of the breast, uterus, gallbladder, cervix, ovary and colon. Overweight men are more likely to develop colorectal and prostate cancer.

Other cancers associated with obesity include cancer of the esophagus, pancreas, kidney and liver. Note that, for some types of cancer (such as colon or breast), it is not clear if the increased risk is because of the extra weight or a high-fat high-calorie diet.

4. Sleep apnea

Obesity is associated with sleep apnea, a serious breathing condition that can cause a person to snore heavily and stop breathing for short periods during sleep. It can lead to daytime drowsiness, as well as heart failure.

5. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is chronic inflammation that damages the cartilage (tissue that protects bones) and bone in or near a joint. Being obese places extra pressure on joints (especially the knees, hips and lower back) and wears away the cartilage that normally protects them.

Osteoarthritis is a major cause of knee replacement surgery in people who have been obese for many years.

6. GERD

People who are obese also have a greater chance of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, causing irritation in the lining of the esophagus.

Other risk factors

While obesity itself can lead to these and other health issues, people with obesity who have a family history of any of these conditions will be at an even greater risk of developing the condition.

Additionally, people whose excess weight is mostly around their stomach, rather than around their hips and buttocks, will also have a greater risk of developing certain diseases.

Bariatric surgery can help reduce or eliminate the health conditions you may be suffering from as a result of obesity. If you would like to learn more about weight loss surgery in Dallas, Texas, sign up for a free informational consultation with Dr. Jay today.