Obesity: A complex and chronic disease

1. Various factors

Obesity is usually the result of various factors, such as the patient’s lifestyle and diet, heredity (obese parents), drug use, or a (chronic) disease. Psychological problems (stress, anxiety, depression, etc.) can cause an imbalance of the intestinal flora or hormonal issues that can lead to obesity.

2. Risks

There is a clear link between obesity and (chronic) diseases and complications. These can lead to long-term disability or premature death.
Type 2 diabetes (frequent urination, thirst, hunger, fatigue)

  • Cardiovascular disease (arterial hypertension, high cholesterol, risk of cerebrovascular accident, heart attack)
  • Respiratory problems (sleep apnoea, shortness of breath)
  • Joint problems (knee, lower back, osteoarthritis)
  • Liver problems (liver disease)
  • Hormonal disorders (such as menstrual disorders)
  • Risk of certain cancers (breast, colon)
  • Muscle disorders and thrombosis (poor blood circulation)

Severe obesity can also cause sleep issues, sleep apnoea, or infertility. Psychosocial problems, social isolation, rejection, loneliness, and depression are also frequent in obese patients. Therefore, it is essential to intervene in time to avoid additional problems.

3. Calculate your BMI
 
Calculating your BMI (body mass index) can help you determine if you have a weight problem. However, to assess obesity accurately, a waist circumference measurement must also be performed. The patient’s age, gender, and physical appearance must also be taken into account.

The following standard generally applies to determine overweight or obesity:

  • Underweight = less than 18.5
  • Healthy weight = 18.5 to 25
  • Overweight = 25 to 30
  • Severely overweight (obesity) = 30 to 40
  • Very severely overweight (morbid obesity) = 40 or more
     

TREATING OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY

Calculez votre BMI