What is obesity, and how is it generally defined by medical organizations?

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of body fat to an extent that it negatively impacts health. It is typically defined by medical organizations using Body Mass Index (BMI), where a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher indicates obesity. This metric helps standardize the assessment of excess body fat across populations.

What is the standard BMI classification for overweight individuals?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a BMI ranging from 25 to 29.9 kg/m² is classified as overweight. This range signifies a higher body weight than what is considered healthy but not yet reaching the threshold for obesity.

How do some East Asian countries differ in their classification of obesity compared to the WHO standard?

Some East Asian countries use lower BMI thresholds to classify obesity, with Japan defining obesity as a BMI greater than 25 kg/m² and China using a BMI greater than 28 kg/m². This adjustment is based on evidence indicating that these populations tend to develop negative health consequences at lower BMI levels compared to Caucasian populations.

What are the three classes of obesity as defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)?

The CDC further subdivides obesity based on BMI: Class 1 obesity is a BMI of 30 to 34.9 kg/m², Class 2 obesity is a BMI of 35 to 39.9 kg/m², and Class 3 obesity, often referred to as severe or morbid obesity, is a BMI of 40 kg/m² or higher.

What is the WHO's definition of obesity for children aged 5 to 19 years?

For children and adolescents aged 5 to 19, the WHO defines obesity as a BMI that is two standard deviations above the median for their age and sex. This definition accounts for the natural growth and development patterns of children.

What are the primary health complications associated with obesity?

Obesity is correlated with numerous health issues, including cardiovascular diseases like heart disease and stroke, type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, certain types of cancer, and osteoarthritis. It is also recognized as a major cause of disability.

How significantly can obesity reduce a person's life expectancy?

Depending on the degree of obesity and the presence of other health conditions, obesity can reduce life expectancy by an estimated two to twenty years. Specifically, severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m²) is associated with a reduction of approximately ten years.

What is metabolic syndrome, and how is it linked to obesity?

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of medical disorders that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It includes conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat. Obesity is a primary risk factor for developing metabolic syndrome, as excess body fat can disrupt normal metabolic processes.

What are the main categories of causes for obesity?

Obesity is generally understood to result from a complex interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Key causes include excessive consumption of energy-dense foods, sedentary lifestyles, genetic susceptibility, and broader environmental influences such as urbanization and changes in food availability and accessibility.

What is the "calorie is a calorie" model of obesity?

The "a calorie is a calorie" model of obesity posits that weight gain is primarily caused by an imbalance between energy intake (calories consumed) and energy expenditure (calories burned). While this highlights a fundamental principle of energy balance, it may oversimplify the complex biological and environmental factors that contribute to obesity.

How do genetics contribute to obesity?

Genetic factors play a role in obesity by influencing an individual's appetite regulation, metabolism, and energy expenditure. Polymorphisms in various genes can predispose individuals to weight gain, particularly when exposed to an environment that promotes high calorie intake and low physical activity.

What is the "thrifty gene hypothesis" in relation to obesity?

The thrifty gene hypothesis suggests that humans evolved genes that promote efficient energy storage as fat, which was advantageous for survival during periods of food scarcity. In modern environments with abundant food, this genetic tendency can increase susceptibility to obesity.

What is the role of the gut microbiome in obesity?

The gut microbiome, comprising the trillions of microorganisms in the digestive tract, has been observed to differ between lean and obese individuals. Alterations in gut bacteria may influence the body's ability to harvest energy from food, potentially contributing to obesity, although the precise causal mechanisms are still under investigation.

What are some common medications that can cause weight gain or obesity?

Certain medications can lead to weight gain or changes in body composition as a side effect. These include insulin, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, atypical antipsychotics, antidepressants, steroids, some anticonvulsants (like phenytoin and valproate), pizotifen, and certain forms of hormonal contraception.

What is the primary treatment recommended for obesity by health professionals?

The primary treatment recommended by health professionals for obesity involves lifestyle interventions, focusing on sustainable changes in diet and increased physical exercise. These changes aim to create a calorie deficit and improve overall metabolic health.

What is bariatric surgery, and how effective is it for treating obesity?

Bariatric surgery refers to a range of procedures designed to reduce stomach size or alter the digestive tract to promote significant and often long-term weight loss. It is considered the most effective treatment for severe obesity, leading to substantial improvements in obesity-related health conditions.

What are some examples of bariatric surgery procedures?

Common bariatric surgery procedures include laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, vertical-sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion. Each procedure has different mechanisms for achieving weight loss.

How has the global prevalence of obesity changed since 1980?

The global prevalence of obesity has significantly increased since 1980. Between 1980 and 2014, the number of obese adults worldwide more than doubled, and by 2022, it was estimated that 16% of the global adult population was living with obesity.

When did the World Health Organization (WHO) formally recognize obesity as a global epidemic?

The World Health Organization (WHO) formally recognized obesity as a global epidemic in 1997, highlighting its widespread and increasing impact on public health worldwide.

How has the perception of obesity changed historically in Western societies?

Historically, particularly in earlier periods, obesity was often viewed as a sign of wealth, prosperity, and status. However, in modern Western societies, the ideal has shifted towards slimness, and excess weight is frequently associated with negative stereotypes and social stigma.

What are the economic impacts of obesity?

Obesity has substantial economic impacts, including increased direct medical costs for treating obesity-related diseases, higher business costs due to increased absenteeism and disability leave, and potential disadvantages in employment such as lower wages and fewer promotion opportunities.

What is the "fat acceptance movement," and what are its primary goals?

The fat acceptance movement is a social and political movement that aims to challenge weight-based discrimination and stigma. Its primary goals include promoting respect for people of all sizes and advocating for equal rights and opportunities, regardless of body weight.

How does urbanization contribute to the rise in obesity rates?

Urbanization can contribute to obesity by fostering lifestyles that are less physically active, such as increased reliance on motorized transportation and sedentary work environments. Additionally, urban planning may sometimes limit access to safe spaces for physical activity, further exacerbating the issue.

What is the role of sweetened beverages in the obesity epidemic?

The consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, such as sodas and sweetened fruit drinks, is strongly linked to the obesity epidemic. These beverages provide significant amounts of calories and sugar without contributing much to satiety, leading to increased overall calorie intake and a higher risk of weight gain and related metabolic disorders.

What are "food swamps," and how do they relate to obesity?

Food swamps are geographic areas characterized by an overabundance of unhealthy, calorie-dense food options, often fast food or convenience stores, with limited access to nutritious, fresh foods. These environments are considered strong predictors of higher obesity rates within a community.

What is the "obesity paradox" and where has it been observed?

The obesity paradox refers to the observation that in certain specific patient populations, such as those with heart failure or undergoing hemodialysis, individuals with a higher BMI within the overweight or obese range may exhibit better survival rates compared to their normal-weight counterparts. This phenomenon is complex and not fully understood.

How does insufficient sleep contribute to obesity?

Insufficient sleep is associated with an increased risk of obesity. Sleep deprivation can disrupt the balance of hormones that regulate appetite, such as ghrelin and leptin, potentially leading to increased hunger and calorie consumption.

What is the relationship between personality traits and obesity?

Research suggests associations between certain personality traits and obesity. For instance, traits like loneliness, neuroticism, and impulsivity have been linked to a higher likelihood of obesity, while conscientiousness and self-control are associated with a lower risk. However, these findings are often based on self-reported data and can be influenced by societal factors.

What are the main pathophysiological processes involved in the development of obesity?

The development of obesity is primarily attributed to two interconnected processes: a sustained positive energy balance, where calorie intake consistently exceeds energy expenditure, and the body's adaptation to defend a higher weight, often referred to as a 'set point' resetting at an increased level.

What role do leptin and ghrelin play in appetite regulation related to obesity?

Leptin and ghrelin are key hormones involved in appetite regulation. Leptin, produced by fat cells, signals satiety to the brain, while ghrelin, produced in the stomach, stimulates appetite. Dysregulation or resistance to these hormones, particularly leptin, can disrupt appetite control and contribute to obesity.

What is the significance of the "thrifty phenotype hypothesis" for obesity?

The thrifty phenotype hypothesis proposes that adverse nutritional conditions during critical developmental periods, such as fetal development or early childhood, can lead to permanent metabolic adaptations. These adaptations may promote fat storage and increase the risk of obesity and related metabolic diseases later in life when exposed to a more abundant food environment.

What is the impact of smoking cessation on body weight?

Smoking cessation is often followed by weight gain. Studies indicate that individuals who quit smoking tend to gain an average of 4.4 to 5.0 kilograms over a ten-year period, although this effect has had a limited impact on overall population obesity trends.

How does the prevalence of obesity vary between developed and developing countries?

While obesity was historically more prevalent in developed countries, rates are now rising rapidly in developing nations as well, particularly in urban areas. This reflects global shifts in lifestyle, diet, and economic development, leading to a worldwide obesity epidemic.

What is the relationship between the number of children a person has and their risk of obesity in the United States?

In the United States, there is a correlation between the number of children a person has and their risk of obesity. Specifically, a woman's risk of obesity increases by about 7% per child, and a man's risk increases by about 4% per child, possibly due to reduced physical activity associated with parenting responsibilities.

What is the significance of the term "obesogen"?

Obesogens are environmental chemical compounds that are suspected of contributing to obesity. These substances are thought to disrupt the body's normal metabolic processes and hormonal signaling, potentially promoting weight gain and fat accumulation.

What is the relationship between obesity and depression?

Obesity and depression have a bidirectional relationship, meaning they can influence each other. Obesity can increase the risk of developing depression, and conversely, depression can lead to a higher likelihood of weight gain and obesity, often due to lifestyle changes and reduced physical activity.

What is the primary goal of the fat acceptance movement?

The primary goal of the fat acceptance movement is to challenge and reduce weight-based discrimination and stigma. It advocates for the rights and dignity of individuals of all sizes and promotes the idea that body weight should not be a barrier to social acceptance or access to resources.

What is the historical view of obesity in Ancient Greek medicine?

In Ancient Greek medicine, obesity was recognized as a medical disorder. Physicians like Hippocrates noted that corpulence was not only a disease in itself but also a precursor to other health problems, highlighting an early understanding of its detrimental effects.

How did the Industrial Revolution influence perceptions of body size and health?

The Industrial Revolution emphasized the importance of physical strength and size for labor and military service. This period saw an increase in average body mass and height in developed nations, contributing to a societal shift where a larger body size was initially associated with health and capability.

What is the significance of "Rubenesque" in the context of art and obesity?

The term "Rubenesque" refers to the style of painting by Peter Paul Rubens, who often depicted voluptuous, heavyset female figures. These figures, while celebrated for their sensuality and association with fertility, represented an artistic ideal of a fuller, more rounded physique.

What are the implications of the "obesity paradox" for cardiovascular disease?

The obesity paradox in cardiovascular disease suggests that individuals with mild to moderate obesity may sometimes have better outcomes or lower mortality rates compared to normal-weight individuals with similar conditions. However, this effect is specific to certain patient groups and does not negate the overall health risks of obesity.

What is the role of "upstream" policies in obesity management?

Upstream policies in obesity management focus on addressing the broader societal and environmental factors that influence health behaviors. These policies aim to create environments that support healthy eating and physical activity at a population level, rather than focusing solely on individual behavior change.

How is childhood obesity defined by the WHO in terms of BMI percentiles?

The WHO defines childhood obesity for children aged 5 to 19 years as having a BMI that falls above the 95th percentile for their age and sex. This definition is based on growth charts that account for age-related changes in BMI.

What is the primary cause of the recent increase in childhood obesity rates?

The recent surge in childhood obesity rates is primarily attributed to changes in dietary patterns, including increased consumption of processed and high-calorie foods, coupled with a decline in physical activity levels among children. Advertising of unhealthy foods also plays a significant role.

What is the prevalence of obesity in dogs and cats in the United States?

In the United States, a significant portion of pet dogs and cats are overweight or obese. Estimates suggest that 23-41% of dogs and about 6.4% of cats are overweight or obese, indicating a common health issue in companion animals.

What is the relationship between owner obesity and pet obesity?

Studies have indicated a correlation between owner obesity and obesity in dogs, suggesting that shared lifestyle factors may contribute to weight gain in both. However, this association has not been consistently observed between cat owners and their pets.

What is the significance of the "obesity paradox" in relation to hemodialysis patients?

The obesity paradox has been observed in patients undergoing hemodialysis, where overweight and obese individuals have sometimes shown better survival rates compared to normal-weight individuals. This counterintuitive finding suggests complex interactions between BMI, health status, and mortality in specific clinical contexts.

What is the significance of the term "obesogen"?

Obesogens are environmental chemicals that are suspected of contributing to obesity by disrupting the body's endocrine system and metabolic regulation. Exposure to these substances may promote weight gain and fat accumulation, even without significant changes in diet or physical activity.

What is the relationship between obesity and cancer?

Obesity is linked to an increased risk of developing several types of cancer. These include cancers of the esophagus, colon, pancreas, gallbladder, endometrium, kidney, leukemia, and malignant melanoma, highlighting obesity's role as a risk factor for various malignancies.

How does urbanization contribute to the rise in obesity rates, particularly in developing countries?

Urbanization contributes to rising obesity rates by often leading to lifestyle changes such as increased sedentary behavior, reduced physical activity due to urban design, and greater access to processed, high-calorie foods. In developing countries, these shifts can be particularly pronounced as societies transition economically.

What is the role of agricultural policies in the context of obesity?

Agricultural policies, such as subsidies for certain crops like corn and soy, can influence food prices and availability. In some regions, these policies have made processed foods derived from subsidized crops cheaper than healthier options like fruits and vegetables, potentially contributing to increased calorie consumption and obesity.

Obesity Wiki: Obesity Unveiled: A Comprehensive Examination of a Global Health Challenge

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Defining Obesity

A Medical Condition

Obesity is recognized as a medical condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat to a degree that negatively impacts health. It is often classified as a disease by numerous health organizations. The primary metric for classification is the Body Mass Index (BMI), calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters.

BMI Classification

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines overweight as a BMI of 25 kg/m² or higher, and obesity as a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher. Some East Asian countries utilize lower BMI thresholds. Further classifications exist, such as Class I (30-34.9 kg/m²), Class II (35-39.9 kg/m²), and Class III (≥40 kg/m²) obesity, with specific subcategories for severe obesity.

Beyond BMI

While BMI is a widely used screening tool, it has limitations. It does not differentiate between fat mass and lean body mass (e.g., muscle), potentially misclassifying athletes or individuals with high muscle mass. Body fat percentage is considered a more precise indicator, with levels exceeding 32% for women and 25% for men generally indicating obesity.

Classification of Obesity

Standard BMI Categories

The standard classification system for obesity in adults, based on BMI, is as follows:

Category	BMI (kg/m²)
Underweight	< 18.5
Ideal weight	18.5 – 24.9
Overweight	25.0 – 29.9
Obese (Class I)	30.0 – 34.9
Obese (Class II)	35.0 – 39.9
Obese (Class III)	≥ 40.0

Pediatric Considerations

For children and adolescents, obesity is assessed using age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles. Obesity is generally defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for age and sex. Overweight is defined as a BMI between the 85th and 95th percentiles.

Regional Variations

It is important to note that negative health consequences associated with BMI can vary across different ethnic populations. For instance, some Asian populations may experience adverse health effects at lower BMI levels compared to Caucasian populations, leading to adjusted classification thresholds in certain regions.

Health Consequences

Increased Morbidity

Obesity is a significant risk factor for a multitude of health conditions. These include metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and hypertension, cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease and heart failure, respiratory issues like obstructive sleep apnea, and musculoskeletal problems like osteoarthritis. It is also linked to certain types of cancer and mental health conditions like depression.

Reduced Life Expectancy

The presence of obesity, particularly severe obesity, is strongly correlated with a reduced life expectancy. Studies indicate that individuals with higher BMIs may experience a significant decrease in years lived compared to those within the ideal weight range. This reduction is often attributed to the cumulative impact of obesity-related comorbidities.

Mortality Risk

Globally, obesity is recognized as a leading preventable cause of death. While the relationship between BMI and mortality can be complex and sometimes U-shaped, generally, higher BMIs are associated with increased mortality risk, primarily due to the exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Etiology of Obesity

Dietary Factors

The modern food environment, characterized by the widespread availability of palatable, energy-dense foods, often high in fats and sugars, is a primary driver. Increased consumption of processed foods, sweetened beverages, and larger portion sizes contributes significantly to a positive energy balance.

Sedentary Lifestyles

A global shift towards less physically demanding occupations, increased reliance on motorized transportation, and labor-saving technologies have led to a marked decrease in daily physical activity. This reduction in energy expenditure, coupled with high energy intake, is a critical factor in the rising rates of obesity.

Genetic Predisposition

While environmental factors are paramount, genetic influences play a role. Numerous gene polymorphisms have been identified that can predispose individuals to obesity by affecting appetite regulation, metabolism, and energy expenditure. However, genetics alone cannot explain the rapid increase in obesity prevalence observed over recent decades.

Social and Environmental Determinants

Socioeconomic status, cultural norms, urbanization, stress, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals can all influence obesity risk. Income inequality, food marketing practices, and urban design that limits opportunities for physical activity are significant societal factors contributing to the epidemic.

Underlying Mechanisms

Energy Homeostasis

Obesity is fundamentally a disorder of energy homeostasis. It arises from a sustained imbalance where energy intake consistently exceeds energy expenditure. This leads not only to fat accumulation but also to a potential resetting of the body's weight "set point" at a higher level, making long-term weight maintenance challenging.

Hormonal Regulation

Hormones such as leptin (produced by fat cells, signaling satiety) and ghrelin (produced in the stomach, signaling hunger) play crucial roles in appetite regulation. Dysregulation or resistance to these hormones, particularly within the hypothalamus, can disrupt normal feeding behaviors and contribute to obesity.

Metabolic and Inflammatory Changes

Excess adipose tissue triggers a proinflammatory state and can lead to insulin resistance, a key precursor to type 2 diabetes. Alterations in fat cell function and distribution, including ectopic fat deposition, contribute to the metabolic dysfunction associated with obesity.

Strategies for Management

Lifestyle Interventions

The cornerstone of obesity management involves sustainable lifestyle changes. This includes adopting a balanced, calorie-controlled diet, increasing regular physical activity, and modifying behavioral patterns. While adherence can be challenging, these interventions are crucial for long-term health improvement.

Pharmacotherapy

Several medications are approved for long-term obesity management, often used in conjunction with lifestyle changes. These drugs work through various mechanisms, such as appetite suppression or reducing fat absorption. However, their effectiveness and long-term safety profiles require careful consideration, and weight regain can occur upon discontinuation.

Bariatric Surgery

For individuals with severe obesity, particularly those with significant comorbidities, bariatric surgery offers the most effective treatment for substantial and sustained weight loss. Procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy not only reduce body weight but also frequently lead to improvements in obesity-related health conditions.

Global Prevalence

A Worldwide Epidemic

Obesity has transitioned from a condition primarily affecting high-income nations to a global epidemic impacting both developed and developing countries. Rates have increased dramatically since the 1970s, with over a billion adults and millions of children classified as obese worldwide.

Demographic Trends

Obesity rates tend to increase with age, peaking in middle age. Globally, women generally exhibit higher rates of obesity than men. The prevalence varies significantly by region, with marked increases observed in urban settings.

Socioeconomic Correlations

In developed nations, obesity rates often correlate positively with income inequality. Conversely, in developing countries, higher socioeconomic status is frequently associated with greater obesity prevalence, reflecting disparities in access to resources and differing cultural perceptions of body weight.

Historical Perspective

Ancient Recognition

Obesity has been recognized as a medical condition since antiquity. Ancient Greek physicians like Hippocrates noted its association with other ailments, and historical texts from various cultures reflect an awareness of excessive body fat as a health concern, though often viewed as a sign of prosperity due to historical food scarcity.

Industrialization and Modernization

The Industrial Revolution and subsequent societal changes, including advancements in food production and transportation, contributed to shifts in dietary patterns and physical activity levels. This era marked the beginning of obesity becoming more prevalent beyond elite circles.

Evolving Attitudes

Cultural perceptions of body weight have varied significantly throughout history and across societies. While historically associated with wealth, modern Western societies often stigmatize obesity, viewing it negatively and linking it to character flaws, despite increasing population-wide rates.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Obesity" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about obesity while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

anton stevens

social stratification

paraná state

robert yerkes

list of successful votes of no confidence in british governments

theremin

jim lloyd

73rd british academy film awards

labour party uk

lijiang

References

Masand PS. "Weight gain associated with psychotropic drugs". Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy. 2000;1:377â389.

Baum, Charles L. "The effects of cigarette costs on BMI and obesity." Health Economics 18.1 (2009): 3-19. APA

FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP and WHO. 2017.The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2017. Building resilience for peace and food security. Rome, FAO

A full list of references for this article are available at the Obesity Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence model, drawing upon publicly available data from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, the information is presented for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

This is not medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider or physician with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it due to information obtained from this resource. The creators of this page assume no liability for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.

Obesity Unveiled

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining Obesity ℹ️

⚖️ A Medical Condition

📊 BMI Classification

🔬 Beyond BMI

Classification of Obesity 🔢

📏 Standard BMI Categories

👶 Pediatric Considerations

🌏 Regional Variations

Health Consequences 🩺

⚠️ Increased Morbidity

⏳ Reduced Life Expectancy

📈 Mortality Risk

Etiology of Obesity 🔬

🍎 Dietary Factors

🛋️ Sedentary Lifestyles

🧬 Genetic Predisposition

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Social and Environmental Determinants

Underlying Mechanisms 🧠

⚖️ Energy Homeostasis

💡 Hormonal Regulation

⚡ Metabolic and Inflammatory Changes

Strategies for Management 🧑‍⚕️

🏃 Lifestyle Interventions

💊 Pharmacotherapy

✂️ Bariatric Surgery

Global Prevalence 🌍

📈 A Worldwide Epidemic

📊 Demographic Trends

💰 Socioeconomic Correlations

Historical Perspective 📜

🏛️ Ancient Recognition

🏭 Industrialization and Modernization

🤔 Evolving Attitudes

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Obesity

A Medical Condition

BMI Classification

Beyond BMI

Classification of Obesity

Standard BMI Categories

Pediatric Considerations

Regional Variations

Health Consequences

Increased Morbidity

Reduced Life Expectancy

Mortality Risk

Etiology of Obesity

Dietary Factors

Sedentary Lifestyles

Genetic Predisposition

Social and Environmental Determinants

Underlying Mechanisms

Energy Homeostasis

Hormonal Regulation

Metabolic and Inflammatory Changes

Strategies for Management

Lifestyle Interventions

Pharmacotherapy

Bariatric Surgery

Global Prevalence

A Worldwide Epidemic

Demographic Trends

Socioeconomic Correlations

Historical Perspective

Ancient Recognition

Industrialization and Modernization

Evolving Attitudes

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice