Obesity - A Growing Trend in America

A study by the federal government reported that in the year 2000 6 out of 10 Americans were overweight. A person that is 40% overweight is 2 times as likely to die prematurely then someone who is of average weight. There are many health risks that are attributed to being overweight.

Doctors typically use a combination of a person's weight, height, and body fat to determine if they are overweight. While there are many different height weight charts available, it is important to consider the amount of muscle a person has. Since muscle weighs more than fat, it is possible to be classified as overweight by the weight/height chart, but still be healthy. These charts and calculators should not be used as an exact indication, but can be very accurate.

There are many different types of health problems that can arise because you are overweight. Heart disease and stroke are two risks that are greatly increased by being overweight. These are the two leading cause of death and disability in America and an overweight person is much more likely to suffer from these problems. There are also several types of cancers that are more common in overweight individuals. In women cancer of the uterus, breast, and colon are much more common. Men who are overweight are at greater risk of developing colon, rectum, and prostate cancer. Diabetes is also much more common in those that are overweight.

Perhaps the most common affliction to affect those who are overweight are joint problems. One type of joint problem that those who are overweight are at greater risk for is gout. Gout is a disease that is caused as a result of high levels of uric acid in the blood. Eventually the uric acid forms into solid stones and can become lodged in the joints. Another type of joint disorder common in those overweight is osteoarthritis, which is a type of arthritis that results in the loss of cartilage of the joints. Wear and tear on the joints will cause the cartilage to thin and eventually the bones of the joints will begin to rub together and it commonly affects the knees and back.

Both gout and osteoarthritis can be incredibly painful and it often becomes very difficult to stand, sit, walk, or otherwise move around. Many people use rollators, rolling walkers, when moving around. Mobility scooters can also be used for walking and there are many lifting aids that can make standing and sitting much easier. One of the most common lifting aids is the lift chair, which is a recliner that has a rising base. They also sometimes feature built in heat, which can help ease aching joints. Since standing and sitting can be so painful, there are also several other types of lifting devices that can aid in this process. This includes bath lifts, which are used in the bath tub, and toilet seat lifts, which aid in standing and sitting on the toilet.

Obesity in America is a growing problem that greatly affects many people. Loosing weight is the best way to reduce the weight risks associated with obesity, and by simply loosing 10% of your overall weight, you will greatly reduce the risk of heart disease, but most doctors recommend at least a 20% reduction in weight.

David Litel is an experienced writer for A1 Medical Supplies. To find out more about heavy duty lift chairs, extra wide lift chairs, rollators, and other types of mobility aids visits or call A1 Medical Supplies.