Diseases Caused by Obesity, Can they be Avoided?

This paper is meant to be a detailed walkthrough. I am sure you will enjoy it.

It is a known fact that obesity is a major contributor to the increase in preventable diseases associated with death. Statistics show that the higher the body weight, the higher the death rate.

The increase in obesity has caused a ripple effect in the increase in diseases caused by obesity. Diseases caused by obesity range from high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, gall bladders disease, sleep apnea, asthma, and certain types of cancers, arthritis, and the list goes on and on. Not to mention the social aspects that individuals must deal with such as discrimination, stigmatization, and low self-esteem.

Here is a list from “The Surgeon General’s Call to Action To Prevent and Decrease Overweight and Obesity” for at risk diseases associated with Obesity.

• Type 2 Diabetes
• Stroke
• Gallbladder disease
• Sleep apnea
• Cancer (colon, gallbladder, endometrial, kidney, and postmenopausal breast cancer)
• Pregnancy complications
• Hirsutism (unusual amount of facial hair)
• High increase of surgical risk
• Psychological difficulties due to social stigmatization
• Premature death
• Heart disease
• Hypertension
• Osteoarthritis (degeneration of bone and cartilage in the joints)
• High blood cholesterol
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Stress incontinence (urine leakage caused by weak pelvic-floor muscles)
• Depression (psychological disorders)
• Gout

It is more than likely that if you are an obese male you have a greater chance of dying from cancer of the rectum, colon, or prostrate. If you are an overweight or obese female you are more than likely to die from cancer of the breast, uterus, gallbladder, ovaries, or cervix.

Studies also show that people who are obese or overweight have a greater chance of developing Alzheimer’s-type dementia.

According to studies done by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, people that are overweight by 40% are twice as likely to die at a younger age. It is a known fact that the heavier a person is; the more likely they are to develop health problems.

Physical ailments are not the only traits associated with obesity diseases, many people suffer from social pressures and emotional issues. Women especially are faced with the being thin and attractive. The unrealistic messages sent out in commercials, magazines, and the media create unrealistic views where self-image is concerned.

Women assume that thin is in and can develop symptoms of bulimia, anorexia, and other eating disorders from trying to reach unrealistic goals where their weight and body image is concerned.

While many of these disease are known to exist even if weight is not an issue, studies show that obesity is a major contributor to diseases that may otherwise be avoided as a result of being overweight.

Obesity is a disease that for many is a constant battle. New studies and association are being formed daily to help people become aware and deal with their weight issues. Realizing that you have a weight problem is the first step towards getting the help that you need.

Copyright 2007-2009 Janice J. Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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