On 4th March 2025, World Obesity Day was observed, an event internationally recognized for its role in raising awareness and exploring solutions to the global obesity crisis.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), obesity rates have tripled since 1975 and quintupled among children and adolescents, affecting all age groups in both developing and developed countries. Obesity is a chronic health issue linked to serious conditions, including heart diseases and elevated sugar levels. A body mass index (BMI) above 25 is considered overweight, and above 30, obese. BMI measures a person’s weight relative to their height.
Obesity develops over time from consuming more calories than needed, leading to an energy imbalance and increased fat storage.
Factors that increase the risk of becoming overweight or obese include:
- Lack of Active Lifestyle: It is recommended to engage in at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week.
- Poor Eating Habits: Overconsumption of fatty foods or foods high in added sugars.
- Inadequate Sleep and Rest: A minimum of 7 hours is recommended.
- Long-term Stress: This affects the brain and triggers the hormone cortisol, which controls hunger urges and energy balance, leading to increased eating and fat storage.
- Health Conditions: Conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can cause weight gain, which needs to be managed to prevent other health issues.
- Genetics: These can predispose individuals to gain excess weight. Adopting a healthy lifestyle early can reduce obesity risks.
- Medications: Some, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, contraceptives, beta-blockers, and diabetes medications, can cause weight gain by disrupting chemical signals that regulate hunger.
- Environmental Factors: Living in areas with easy access to fast food can contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle.
Treatment Options for Obesity
Treatment options for obesity include weight loss programs and, in some cases, medications that reduce appetite. For individuals who do not respond to lifestyle changes or medication, surgery might be considered.
Surgical options involve the removal of a portion of the stomach, the placement of a band around the upper stomach, or connecting a small part of the stomach to the intestine to reduce food intake.
