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Writer's pictureObinna Eleweanya

OBESITY AND DISEASE ARE LINKED

Updated: May 15, 2023


with Obesity spreading through the western world. Obesity and diseases are now shown to be linked
OBESITY is an epidemic

Millions of people of all ages are affected by obesity, making it a major public health issue. It's a complicated condition that arises when someone's fat stores grow to the point where they threaten their health. Obesity is connected to the onset of several chronic diseases, in addition to its more visible effects on the body and mind. The following blog post will discuss the link between obesity and several chronic diseases, stressing the urgency of doing something about this worldwide problem.


Coronary heart disease

Obesity increases the chance of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Hypertension (high blood pressure), atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries), coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and strokes are all made more likely by being overweight and eating poorly. These cardiovascular diseases are closely connected with the buildup of visceral fat, especially in the abdominal area, highlighting the necessity of weight management.


Metabolic Syndrome

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, and obesity is a key risk factor for developing the disease. Insulin resistance is caused by adipocyte (fat cell) secretions that interfere with insulin production and activity. The increased risk of getting diabetes is a direct result of the additional burden that being overweight places on the body's ability to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Furthermore, people who are overweight are at a greater risk for developing diabetes-related complications such heart disease, kidney failure, and nerve damage.


Problems Breathing

The respiratory system may suffer serious damage from obesity. People who are overweight have a harder time breathing because their lungs and chest cavity are compressed. Obesity is strongly linked to conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, which cause breathing to stop and start repeatedly during the night. Snoring, fatigue during the day, and potentially fatal breathing problems can result from extra fat in the neck and chest area. People who are overweight are also more likely to suffer from asthma, COPD, and pulmonary hypertension.


Pain in the Joints and Other Musculoskeletal Issues

When you're overweight, your knees, hips, and ankles take a serious beating. This can cause stiffness, discomfort, and loss of movement in the joints over time. Obesity-related joint problems can have a major effect on a person's quality of life by limiting their ability to go about their daily activities and engage in physical activity, which can then lead to more weight gain and a cascade of health concerns.


Breast, colorectal, ovarian, pancreatic, liver, and kidney cancers are only some of the many that have been linked to obesity in scientific studies. Obesity is related with a number of hormonal and metabolic alterations, all of which contribute to the observed relationships. Obesity reduction may reduce cancer rates and improve survival rates for all cancers.


Conclusion


The health risks associated with obesity are far more serious than whatever aesthetic consequences it may have. Obesity has negative effects on nearly every body system, far beyond the superficial. Prevention and treatment plans that emphasize healthier lifestyle choices, such as eating right, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight, are essential. The impact of obesity and other chronic diseases on individuals and healthcare systems can be mitigated by public health efforts, education, and awareness campaigns. Taking on obesity now can help future generations have a longer, healthier life.

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