Adult and childhood obesity

Obesity is characterized by the excessive accumulation of body fat, to the point where it can have negative effects on a person's health. It is typically assessed using the body mass index (BMI), which takes into account a person's weight and height. 

An adult (age 18+) with a BMI of 30 or higher is generally considered obese. For children, BMI is age- and sex-specific, and it is expressed as a percentile. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States provides the following classifications:

• Underweight: Less than the 5th percentile

• Normal weight: 5th to less than the 85th percentile

• Overweight: 85th to less than the 95th percentile

• Obese: Equal to or greater than the 95th percentile

The prevalence of obesity has been steadily increasing over the years, affecting nearly 100 million adults and 15 million children in the United States. Obesity is a complex health issue associated with various health risks, including an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and musculoskeletal disorders. Managing and preventing obesity typically involves lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier diet and increasing physical activity, along with medical interventions when necessary.

How do you detect childhood obesity? 

In the United States, childhood obesity is often classified as follows:

• Overweight: A child with a BMI at or above the 85th percentile but below the 95th percentile for their age and gender is considered overweight.

• Obese: A child with a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for their age and gender is classified as obese.

It's important to note that BMI percentiles are specific to age and gender because children's bodies change as they grow, and what is considered a healthy weight can vary at different developmental stages. 

Main causes of obesity

Obesity can have various causes, both genetic and lifestyle-related. Here are some of the primary causes of obesity:

• Unhealthy diet: Consuming a diet high in calories, sugars, and processed foods can lead to obesity. Overeating and frequent consumption of fast food, sugary beverages, and high-fat snacks contribute to weight gain.

• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle with little or no physical activity can lead to weight gain. Regular exercise helps burn calories and maintain a healthy weight.

• Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to obesity. Family history can play a role in determining a person's susceptibility to weight gain.

• Emotional factors: Emotional and psychological factors, such as stress, depression, and trauma, can lead to overeating and weight gain as people turn to food for comfort.

• Environmental factors: The environment in which a person lives can impact their weight. Lack of access to healthy food options, limited opportunities for physical activity, and living in an obesogenic environment can contribute to obesity.

• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and hormonal imbalances, can make it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it.

*Disclaimer: Exact treatment options and recommendations can vary based on age. Consult with an obesity medicine physician to get a proper treatment plan.

What health conditions can obesity cause?*

Obesity is associated with a range of health conditions and complications, many of which can have serious consequences for an individual's overall well-being. Some of the health conditions that obesity can cause or contribute to include:

• Type 2 diabetes

• Cardiovascular diseases

• Respiratory issues

• Joint problems

• Fatty liver disease (link to fatty liver and obesity page)

• Kidney disease

• Cancer

• Gastrointestinal issues

• Mental health

• Reproductive problems

Treatment options for obesity*

• Lifestyle modifications:

  • Changes to your diet: Working with a registered dietitian to develop a personalized, balanced meal plan that promotes weight loss.

  • Increase in regular exercise: Establishing an exercise routine that includes both aerobic activities (e.g., walking, swimming) and strength training to increase metabolism and burn calories.

• Medication:

  • Prescription medications: In some cases, health care providers may prescribe medications to aid weight loss. These medications work in various ways, such as reducing appetite or blocking fat absorption.

  • Weight loss supplements: Some over-the-counter supplements claim to aid weight loss, but their effectiveness and safety can vary. It's essential to consult a health care provider before using them.

• Bariatric surgery:

  • Gastric bypass: This surgery reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes the small intestine, leading to reduced food intake and calorie absorption.

  • Sleeve gastrectomy: A portion of the stomach is removed, creating a smaller stomach "sleeve" and limiting food intake.

  • Gastric banding (Lap-Band): A band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a smaller pouch, restricting food consumption.

*Disclaimer: Exact treatment options and recommendations can vary based on age. Consult with an obesity medicine physician to get a proper treatment plan.