Morbid obesity, also known as severe obesity or clinically severe obesity, is described as being significantly overweight. This condition particularly pertains to individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or about 100 pounds over the recommended weight.
Morbid Obesity is a condition characterized by an individual's body weight being at least 100 pounds over the recommended weight or having a BMI of 40 or more. Since BMI accurately measures a person's body fat in relation to their height, it can be a reliable indicator for diagnosing morbid obesity.
Awareness about Morbid Obesity is pivotal as it drastically elevates the risk of developing various health adversities. These may include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, arthritis, sleep apnea, colorectal cancer, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and hypertension, among others. Additionally, it could adversely manifest into mental health issues and adversely affect one’s quality of life.
The onset of Morbid Obesity typically results from the imbalance between calories consumed and expended. This condition isn't confined to merely the consequence of lacking willpower or self-control. The causes may be multifactorial and often involve genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Predicated on these factors, excess caloric intake leads to the storage of surplus energy in the form of fat, thereby causing weight gain and potentially morbid obesity.
To identify morbid obesity, a calculation called Body Mass Index (BMI) is primarily used. Below are the steps to calculate your BMI:
If the resulting number is 40 or more, you're may be classified as morbidly obese.
While understanding and diagnosing morbid obesity is undeniably beneficial as it aids in evaluating health risks, it can often lead to stigmatization, psychological distress, and potential bias in healthcare delivery. Besides, BMI as an indicator may not be the most comprehensive measure as it fails to account for muscle mass.
If you fall into the category of morbid obesity, there are multiple ways to tackle it:
Moreover, in severe cases, bariatric surgery can be considered as a medical intervention.
What are the health risks associated with morbid obesity? Morbid obesity increases the risk of numerous health issues, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, certain types of cancer, and osteoarthritis.
Can one prevent or reduce morbid obesity? Yes, morbid obesity can be prevented or reduced through a combination of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, behavioral changes, and sometimes medical or surgical intervention. It's important to establish a sustainable routine that includes balanced nutrition and consistent exercise.
What is the role of bariatric surgery in treating morbid obesity? Bariatric surgery plays a critical role in treating morbid obesity for individuals who have not achieved significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone. It helps reduce stomach size or change the digestive system's functioning, significantly limiting food intake and nutrient absorption, which leads to substantial weight loss and improvements in obesity-related health conditions.
Morbid Obesity is a significant health concern marked by extreme body weight or high BMI. It's associated with various health complications and can significantly diminish life quality. While its understanding and identification are crucial for risk assessment, the focus should be on holistic treatment considering diet and lifestyle changes, regular physical activities, and mental health care.