Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 278.00      ICD10: E66.9      ICD11: 5B81

Obesity is a complex disease involving an excessive amount of body fat.
It isn't just about being overweight; it's a specific health condition with potential serious health consequences.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

Definition:

Excessive body fat accumulation: Obesity occurs when the body accumulates too much body fat, to the point that it negatively impacts health.

Body Mass Index (BMI): While not a perfect measure, BMI is commonly used to screen for weight categories. A BMI of 30 or higher is generally considered obesity. (BMI = weight (kg) / (height (m))^2 )

Causes:

Obesity is usually caused by a combination of factors, including:

Genetics: Genes can influence metabolism, fat storage, and appetite.
Diet: A diet high in calories, processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats contributes to weight gain.
Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle leads to fewer calories burned.
Environment: Our environment, including access to healthy foods, opportunities for exercise, and societal norms, plays a role.
Medications: Some medications (e.g., certain antidepressants, corticosteroids) can cause weight gain.
Underlying Medical Conditions: In rare cases, hormonal problems or other medical conditions can contribute to obesity.
Sleep deprivation: Can affect hormones, leading to increased appetite

Health Risks Associated with Obesity:

Obesity significantly increases the risk of many serious health problems, including:

Heart Disease: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other risk factors for heart disease are more common in people with obesity.
Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity impairs the body's ability to use insulin effectively.
Certain Cancers: Obesity is linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including breast, colon, endometrial, and kidney cancer.
Stroke: Obesity increases the risk of stroke.
Osteoarthritis: Excess weight puts stress on joints.
Sleep Apnea: Obesity can lead to breathing problems during sleep.
Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Fat builds up in the liver.
Gallbladder Disease: Including gallstones.
Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can be more common in people with obesity.
Pregnancy Complications: Increased risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and cesarean delivery.
Reduced Quality of Life: Obesity can limit mobility, energy levels, and overall well-being.

Diagnosis:

BMI Calculation: As mentioned, calculating BMI is a common starting point.
Waist Circumference: Measuring waist circumference helps assess abdominal fat, which is particularly risky.
Medical History and Physical Exam: A doctor will review medical history, medications, and perform a physical exam to identify potential underlying causes or health risks.
Blood Tests: Blood tests may be ordered to check cholesterol levels, blood sugar, liver function, and other indicators of health.

Treatment:

Treatment for obesity typically involves a combination of:

Lifestyle Changes:
Diet: A healthy, balanced diet with controlled calories.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise.
Behavioral Therapy: To address eating habits and develop coping strategies.
Medications: Certain prescription medications can help suppress appetite or reduce fat absorption. These are usually used in conjunction with lifestyle changes.
Surgery (Bariatric Surgery): Surgery is an option for people with severe obesity who haven't been successful with other treatments. Types of surgery include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding.

Prevention:

Healthy Eating Habits: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week.
Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
Stress Management: Find healthy ways to manage stress.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce sedentary activities like watching television and playing video games.

Important Considerations:

Stigma: It's important to address the stigma associated with obesity. It is a complex health condition, not simply a matter of willpower.
Individualized Approach: Treatment plans should be tailored to the individual's needs and circumstances.
Long-Term Commitment: Weight management is a lifelong journey.

In summary, obesity is a chronic disease characterized by excessive body fat that negatively impacts health. It's caused by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Effective treatment and prevention strategies require a multifaceted approach that includes lifestyle changes, and in some cases, medication or surgery.