When you’re obese, this means your weight is 20% higher than the maximum desirable for a man’s height, or 25% higher for a woman. This affects the wellbeing of most of the Western world, and is considered one of our chronic health problems.
Being obese is different to being overweight, which is defined as having a BMI over 25, as obesity is defined by having a body mass index of over 30 kg/m2, and the higher your BMI, the more your wellness is at risk. Almost a quarter of men and women in England are obese, and so are at risk of, or could already have type 2 diabetes, heart disease, some cancers and arthritis (joint disease) amongst other conditions, as well as a reduced level of fertility for women, and sleep disturbances.
You’re more likely to become obese if you have lower levels of education and occupation, especially if you’re a salesperson, personal service worker, plant-machine operator, driver, or labourer. Also, obesity can be an associated feature if you have a congenital syndrome, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), damage to your hypothalamus or if you use steroids. Otherwise, it comes down to your genes, alcohol consumption, food intake and exercise levels, or lack thereof.
If you consult a doctor, he or she can take a thorough medical history, including family weight problems, your dietary habits and your levels of activity, screen you for symptoms of other wellness conditions such as heart disease, depression and diabetes, and question secondary causes of obesity, such as dry skin, constipation and cold intolerance, which potentially suggest hypothyroidism.
Though an obesity diagnosis only requires a BMI or skin fold measurement, as the condition can cause further complications, you doctor should also test your blood cholesterol, liver function, thyroid function (in case you have an under-active thyroid), urine (to check for Cushing’s) and your fasting blood glucose and insulin levels should be tested for any signs of diabetes. Therefore, if you are concerned about your BMI, and the risk it may potentially place on your wellbeing, consult your doctor for testing, and solutions.
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