Obesity: Symptoms, Causes, Types, Prevention & Treatment

It is a medical condition characterised by excess body fat that poses a health risk. It is defined by a Body Mass Index or BMI of 30 or higher. This is calculated based on an individual’s weight to their height. 

Waist circumference is also used to assess obesity. Individuals with increased fat around the waist have a higher risk of obesity-related diseases. A waist size over 35 inches for females and over 40 inches for males significantly raises health risks. 

According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS), the prevalence of abdominal obesity in India (measured using waist circumference) is 40% in women and 12% in men. 5-6 in every 10 women are abdominally obese in the age group of 30-49.

It is categorised into various stages based on the body mass index. These help assess the risk of obesity-related health conditions and determine appropriate treatment strategies. The obese BMI chart is as follows: 

• Pre-obesity (overweight): 25.0 to 29.9

• Class I: 30.0 to 34.9

• Class II: 35.0 to 39.9

• Class III (severe or morbid obesity): 40 or higher 

A child above two years may be considered obese if their BMI is greater than 95% of people of the same age and sex. 

The primary is excessive body fat accumulation, especially around the waist. The symptoms may include some day-to-day problems related to the condition, such as the following: 

• Shortness of breath 

• Increased sweating 

• Snoring 

• Feeling very tired every day 

• Difficulty engaging in physical activity 

• Back and joint pain

• Low self-esteem and confidence

The primary cause is absorbing more calories than energy expenditure over a prolonged period. This leads to the accumulation of excess body fat. Various genetic, behavioural, and environmental factors can influence it.

Obesity Risk Factors

Being obese is a multifaceted health issue influenced by various factors. It represents a growing concern worldwide due to its association with various chronic diseases. Understanding the risk factors helps develop effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Modifiable Risk Factors

These involve lifestyle or environmental aspects that can be altered to decrease the risk.

1. Poor Diet: High-calorie intake, especially from fast foods, sugary drinks, and snacks, significantly contributes to obesity.

2. Sedentary Lifestyle: A lack of exercise or physical activity leads to weight gain.

3. Sleep Patterns: Both oversleeping and lack of sleep can cause hormonal changes that increase appetite, influencing body weight.

4. Stress: High-stress levels may lead to overeating as a coping mechanism.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

These are inherent and unchangeable but vital for understanding an individual’s risk.

1. Family Inheritance: Genetics can affect how an individual’s body stores fat and how efficiently they metabolise food into energy. 

2. Age: People can become obese at any age, even in childhood. However, the risk increases as metabolism slows down with age. According to a 2023 study by Monika Chaudhary and Priyanshu Sharma, abdominal obesity in women was 12.7% in the age group of 15-19. It grew to 56.7% in the age group of 40-49.

3. Health Conditions and Medications: Certain diseases like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and Cushing syndrome (the body produces too much hormone cortisol) can lead to weight gain. Some drugs like steroids, anti-depressants, diabetes medicines, etc., can also cause obesity.

It is a vital health goal due to its significant impact on overall well-being. Lifestyle changes are key strategies for obesity management and maintaining a healthy weight.

Effective prevention steps are as follows: 

• Eating 5-9 servings of vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, etc.) and fruits (apples, bananas, berries, etc.) daily.

• Encouraging healthy eating habits from childhood, including family meals and setting good examples.

• Regular physical activity, aiming for 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly.

The diagnosis of this condition involves various tests that help doctors determine obesity levels and associated health risks. The following methods guide appropriate treatment and management strategies: 

1. Medical History: The bariatric doctor may ask the patient about weight-loss efforts, physical activity, stress levels, family health history, etc. This helps to identify genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors, and obesity-related conditions.

2. Physical Examination: It includes measuring height, checking vital signs, and assessing the heart and lungs. 

3. Body Mass Index (BMI): This is a calculation based on height and weight. An individual is obese if their BMI is 30 or above. 

4. Waist Circumference Measurement: A waist size above 35 inches for women and 40 inches for men indicates abdominal obesity. It increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

5. Blood Tests: These may be done to check for other health conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, and thyroid disorders.

"I recently worked with a patient struggling with obesity, a condition that not only affects physical health but also takes a toll on self-esteem and emotional wellbeing. Together, we navigated the complexities of weight management, from addressing underlying metabolic factors to finding sustainable lifestyle changes. It wasn't an easy journey, but seeing my patient gradually regain their confidence and energy was incredibly rewarding.

Obesity is more than just a number on a scale; it's a multifaceted challenge that requires empathy, understanding, and a personalized approach. Moments like these reaffirm my belief that with the right support, anyone can reclaim their health and happiness."

- Dr. Saurabh Kumar Goyal
Bariatric Surgeon

How to prepare for a doctor consultation? 

Preparing for a bariatrician consultation involves several steps to ensure a productive meeting. The following is how patients can prepare: 

1. List of Symptoms: Note obesity symptoms they have experienced, including any that may seem unrelated. Prepare a summary of past illnesses, surgeries, and family history. 

2. Diet and Exercise Log: Keep a record of food intake, physical activities, and any weight changes over time to discuss with the doctor.

3. Medication and Supplement List: Compile a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements they are taking, including dosages.

Questions to Ask the Doctor 

When consulting a doctor, patients should ask important questions to understand their treatment options better. These questions may include the following:

• Could my obesity be related to an underlying health condition? 

• What are the health risks associated with my weight? 

• How long will it take me to lose that weight? 

• Can you recommend a diet plan tailored to my needs?

• Are there any medications or surgical options that might help with weight loss?

The treatment for obesity aims for a healthy weight to enhance health and reduce complications. It involves collaborating with dietitians, behavioural counsellors, and specialists to modify eating and activity habits. 

The treatment options are as follows: 

Non-surgical Options

Focuses on managing weight without medical procedures. These approaches include: 

1. Dietary Adjustments: Reducing calorie intake and adopting a healthy diet that includes lots of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.

2. Increased Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise into daily routine to burn excess calories. A 30-minute walk at a moderate pace, five times a week, is the most effective exercise for obese individuals.

3. Medications: These may be recommended for some individuals and are used along with lifestyle changes. Prescription drugs may suppress appetite or reduce fat absorption.

4. Allurion: It is a swallowable weight-loss balloon that does not require surgery, endoscopy, or anaesthesia. The balloon takes up space in the stomach to create a feeling of fullness and help patients eat less. 

Surgery

Recommended for morbid obesity cases, it involves surgical procedures to limit food intake or absorption. 

1. Bariatric Surgery: This includes procedures like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or adjustable gastric banding. They alter the digestive system to restrict the consumption and absorption of calories. 

2. Endoscopic Procedures: For some patients, less invasive options like intragastric balloon placement or endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty may be suitable. These procedures do not require skin incisions. 

Note: The treatment approach is selected based on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s opinion. 

Estimated Cost of Obesity Treatment 

The obesity treatment cost in India varies widely depending on the type of intervention chosen. Prices can be influenced by hospital facilities and the surgeon’s expertise. Below are the approximate expenses: 

Note: Patients are advised to consult HexaHealth experts for accurate pricing details.

Delaying the treatment can escalate the risk of serious health issues. Some of these can be life-threatening if not promptly managed. Complications linked with untreated obesity are as follows: 

1. Type 2 Diabetes: Fat accumulation can cause insulin resistance. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels. 

2. High Blood Pressure: Excess body fat can stress the heart and arteries, raising cardiovascular risks. This increases the chances of heart attacks and strokes.

3. Fatty Liver Disease: Excessive fat accumulation in the liver can result in liver damage.

4. Arthritis: Extra weight increases stress on joints, causing inflammation. 

5. Certain Cancers: It can increase inflammation in the body. It leads to a greater risk of developing cancers such as breast, colon, and endometrial.

If an obese individual loses 5-10% of their weight, they can prevent or delay some of these complications.

Managing obesity often involves making long-term lifestyle changes, particularly in diet. A healthy eating plan for might include:

Obesity, characterised by excessive fat accumulation, poses serious health risks, including diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. For individuals who are obese, seeking professional guidance can make a significant difference in achieving a healthier weight. With the right support, overcoming obesity is within reach.

HexaHealth assists individuals battling obesity by facilitating access to specialised medical advice, nutritional counselling, and weight management programs. We offer guidance on surgical and non-surgical treatments tailored to your unique health profile. Our team will support you throughout the surgery and beyond. Contact us today!

Read also:

• Yoga for Obesity
• Non Surgical Obesity
• Symptoms of Obesity

Patient Success Story - Swallowable Weight Loss Balloon