Obesity

What is Obesity?

Obesity is a health condition where too much body fat builds up, leading to various health problems. It is mostly measured using the Body Mass Index, where a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. Obesity increases the risk of many chronic problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

Causes of Obesity

• Unhealthy Diet: Consumption of processed foods more frequently, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity like regular exercise leads to weight gain and fat accumulation.
• Genetic Factors: Family history can affect metabolism and fat storage.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions such as hypothyroidism or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can contribute to weight gain.
• Medications: Some antidepressants, corticosteroids, and antipsychotic drugs may lead to weight gain.
• Psychological Factors: Emotional stress, depression, and binge-eating disorder can result in overeating and obesity.

Health Risks Associated with Obesity

• Cardiovascular Diseases: Increased risk of elevated blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Excess weight can result in insulin resistance and diabetes.
• Joint Problems: Extra body weight puts more stress on the joints, leading to osteoarthritis.
• Sleep Apnea: Fat accumulation around the neck can obstruct airways, causing breathing issues during sleep.
• Certain Cancers: Obesity increases the risk of breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer.
• Liver Disease: Fat accumulation in the liver can also lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Treatment Options for Obesity

Lifestyle Modifications

• Healthy Diet: Opt for a balanced diet rich in fibers, lean proteins, and healthy fats that can help in weight loss.
• Regular Exercise: At least 60-90 minutes of moderate to easy weekly exercise is recommended.
• Behavioral Therapy: Psychological counselling can help to manage emotional eating and unhealthy habits.

Medical Interventions

• Prescription Medications: Some weight-loss drugs may be prescribed to manage obesity.
• Bariatric Surgery: Surgical options, including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding, are considered for individuals with severe obesity who did not respond to other treatments.
• Endoscopic Procedures: Minimally invasive weight-loss procedures such as gastric balloons are available for selected patients.

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Obesity Management?

Aster Hospitals provide expert care for obesity with a team of experienced general surgeons, nutritionists, and bariatric specialists. We provide a better approach to weight management with expert care, including dietary counselling, lifestyle modifications, medical treatments, and surgical interventions for severe obesity cases. Our team ensures personalized treatment plans based on individual needs to help patients achieve long-term weight loss and improved health. From bariatric surgery options like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy to non-surgical weight loss programs, we focus on safe and effective solutions tailored to each patient.

Why Consult a Bariatric Surgeon for Obesity Treatment?

A general surgeon plays a key role in managing severe obesity cases that require surgical intervention. If lifestyle changes, but medications still do not yield results, a surgeon may recommend bariatric surgery to promote significant and sustained weight loss. Surgical procedures not only aid weight loss but also help in the resolution of obesity-related health issues such as diabetes and hypertension.