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Obesity Health Risks
Despite what popular culture has us believe, obesity is more of a health problem than an image problem.
Obesity is the leading cause of many preventable diseases and deaths. An obese person has a higher risk of contracting certain illnesses due to an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol.
The following is a list of the common diseases contracted by obese individuals:
DIABETES: Over 80% of people with diabetes are overweight or obese. Overweight people are twice as likely to develop type 2 diabetes as those who are not overweight. Because Type 2 diabetes reduces your body's ability to control blood sugar levels it can cause premature death, heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, and blindness. One can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by losing weight and by increasing physical activity.
PREMATURE DEATH: The risk of death increases as one’s weight rises. It is estimated that approximately 300,000 deaths a year are attributed to obesity. Those aged 30 to 64 with a slight excess of weight (10 to 20 pounds in accordance with their height) have an increased risk of premature death. Those who are obese (more than 30% of their ideal body weight) have a 50% to 100% increased risk of premature death.
CANCER: Several types of cancer are associated with obesity. In women, these cancers include cancer of the uterus, gallbladder, cervix, ovary, breast, and colon. Obese men have a higher risk of developing cancer of the colon, rectum, and prostate. It has also been found that women gaining more than 20 pounds from age 18 to mid-life double their risk of post-menopausal breast cancer in comparison to other women.
SLEEP APNEA: One of the most common breathing problems associated with obesity is sleep apnea. This condition consists of an interruption in breathing while asleep. Sleep apnea may also cause daytime sleepiness and even heart failure. Studies show that a loss of weight usually improves the condition.
ARTHRITIS: It is estimated that for every 2-pound increase in weight, the risk of developing arthritis is increased by 9 to 13%. Symptoms of arthritis have been shown to improve with weight loss.
To learn more about obesity, avoiding diseases, and maintaining a healthier lifestyle, contact the American Obesity Association.
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