Health Risks of Obesity

Excess fat accumulation in the body is associated with severe health consequences. In this article, we will discuss the health risks of obesity in detail, along with tips for preventing it.

What Are the Health Risks of Obesity?

Obesity affects almost every part of the body. Excess body fat puts pressure on bones and organs, causes abnormal changes in hormones and metabolism, and increases inflammation in the body. Below are the detailed health risks of obesity:

• Nervous System Issues

Studies have shown that obesity increases the risk of stroke by 64%. Blockage or rupture of a blood vessel in the neck or brain can stop blood supply to the brain, causing brain tissue damage and various impairments such as speech problems, muscle weakness, coordination issues, and more.

• Cardiovascular Diseases

One of the most prominent health risks of obesity is heart problems. Excess weight forces the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, leading to high blood pressure. 

High blood pressure, along with elevated cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and blood sugar levels in obese individuals, hardens and narrows the blood vessels (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attacks.

• Fertility Problems

Obesity increases the risk of infertility in both men and women. Men experience a reduction in sperm count and quality, as well as testosterone levels. Women, on the other hand, may face issues with menstruation and ovulation.

• Sexual Dysfunction

Obesity is linked to sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction in men and a loss of sexual desire or difficulty in arousal, pain during intercourse, or inability to maintain arousal in women.

• Pregnancy Complications

Obesity increases the risk of severe pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, blood clots, the need for a C-section, premature birth, miscarriage, and stillbirth.

• Respiratory Problems

Fat accumulation around the neck can narrow the airway, leading to snoring and temporary cessation of breathing during the night, a condition known as sleep apnea.

• Endocrine System Disruption

Obesity causes the body’s cells to become resistant to insulin, meaning that cells cannot absorb glucose properly. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

• Digestive System Issues

Obesity increases the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gallstones, and fat accumulation around the liver, which can cause liver tissue scarring (cirrhosis).

• Bone and Muscle Problems

Obesity can reduce bone density and muscle mass, increasing the risk of fractures and physical disabilities. Excess weight also places stress on joints, leading to pain and stiffness.

• Increased Cancer Risk

While the link between cancer and obesity is not fully understood, obesity increases the risk of developing cancers of the breast, gallbladder, pancreas, colon, kidneys, prostate, uterus, cervix, and ovaries.

• Mental Health Issues

In addition to physical health problems, obesity also affects mental health. It is associated with negative emotions, increased chances of depression, low self-esteem, and lack of confidence.

How Can You Prevent Obesity and Its Health Risks?

Losing just 5% of body weight can reduce the risk of obesity-related health problems. You don't need to make drastic lifestyle changes; small adjustments in your diet, exercise routine, and daily choices can make a big difference. Here are some helpful tips:

• Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week, such as 30 minutes of brisk walking.
• Avoid alcohol, sugary drinks, and sodas.
• Limit fried foods, fast food, and sugary snacks.
• Follow a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits.
• Replace refined grains with whole grains.
• Opt for lean protein sources.

Blazma offers a variety of tests that may be required by a doctor to monitor the health of individuals with obesity, including liver function tests, cholesterol-Total test, insulin resistance tests, and sexual hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) tests, among others.