Health Risks of Obesity
Many medical problems are associated with
obesity. These problems pose greater risks to patients than surgery
for obesity.
Diabetes
Non-insulin dependent (type 2) diabetes is one of the prime risks of
obesity. An increase of just 11-18 pounds above ideal body weight
doubles the risk of developing diabetes compared to the risk of people
at their ideal body weight. After weight loss, type 2
diabetes ends in up to 90% of patients.
Heart disease
Obesity significantly raises the risk of heart attack, congestive
heart failure, chest pain, sudden death, and abnormal heart rhythms.
Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common, dangerous
risk associated with obesity. Losing weight is one of the most
important treatments for people with high blood pressure.
Infertility
Many obese women are unable to conceive because their fatty
tissue alters their hormone levels and prevents ovulation.
Complications of Pregnancy
During pregnancy, obesity can increase the mother's blood
pressure to dangerous levels, and can cause gestational diabetes and
problems with labor and delivery. Obesity raises the risk of death in
both the mother and the baby.
Sleep Apnea
Obese individuals are especially prone to sleep apnea, or
gaps in breathing during sleep, because of the extra fatty tissue that
inhibits breathing. Sleep apnea can cause heart and lung damage or
even sudden death.
Cancer
Obesity is associated with an increased risk of uterine, colon, gall
bladder, prostate, kidney, and breast cancer.
Arthritis
For every two-pound weight gain, the risk of arthritis rises 9-13%.
Other health concerns
A number of other problems are significantly improved or
improved by weight loss, including gastroesophageal reflux, urinary
incontinence, venous problems in the legs, back pain, joint pain, and
shortness of breath.
Research shows that obesity causes a decreased life span: a 6-7 year
decrease among obese nonsmokers, and a 13-14 year decrease in life
expectancy among obese smokers.
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Benefits
of Weight Loss
When
you achieve a healthy weight, whether through diet and exercise alone or
with the help of bariatric surgery, you can expect the following:
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