What is obesity?
Obesity can be defined as excess body weight. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a calculation based on a person’s height and weight [BMI = weight(kg) divided by height(m)2]. This calculation is used as a tool to indicate if a person is under weight, normal weight, over weight, or obese.
| BMI | Indication |
| < 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Normal |
| 25 – 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 – 34.9 | Obese |
| 35 – 39.9 | Obese |
| > 40 | Severe obesity |
What can cause obesity?
- Genetics
- Over eating
- Lack of physical activity
- Illness
- Medications
- Psychological factors
Treatment:
- Diet – Primary intervention
- Exercise – Primary intervention
- Behavior modification – Primary intervention
- Weight loss drugs (prescribed or over the counter)
- Gastrointestinal surgery may be recommended in severe cases
Long-term consequences of obesity:
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease/Stroke
- Osteoarthritis
- Pulmonary problems
- Liver disease
- Asthma
- Sleep Apnea
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only, and should be used only as a supplement to, not a substitute for, professional medical advice.
Helpful Resources
- American Dietetic Association
- Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion
- The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
- American Obesity Association
- American Cancer Society
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (CDC) – Overweight and Obesity.
- US Department of Agriculture – Food and Nutrition Information Center.
- Nutrition.gov
