Risks of Obesity Cited as #1 Health Issue in 2020
       By: Janet L. Bruno, MD
Posted: 2007-01-03 00:21:37
Obesity” states U.S. National Institute of Health (NIH). Today, ninety-six million Americans are considered obese. But, what can be done to reverse the trend?Try a low glycemic diet that is rich in whole grains and low in refined sugars
Exercise regularly and for sustained periods of time
Get enough sleep (studies show that adult dieters who get less than eight hours of sleep per night lose less weight than those who get eight hours or more)
Drink water - at least eight glasses per day
The trend is not absolute and can be altered dramatically. There are factors that contribute to obesity.
1. Genetics 2. Environment3. Our Behaviors
What are some of the negative impacts of obesity?
Diabetes. A large majority of diabetics have acquired the disease directly because of their obesity. They are now chained to a life of taking pills, or even worse, taking insulin shots. Diabetes leads to all sorts of other health complications, as well.
Heart attack. People who are obese are at a significantly higher risk of having a heart attack. This fact is proven over and over again. Sudden cardiac arrest is a fairly common cause of death for someone who is obese.
Cancer. Obesity also increases the chance of acquiring a number of cancers. Yes, it is true. Although this connection wasn't clear for years, it is crystal clear now.
Joint problems. Obesity also leads to joint problems. Excess weight puts significant stress on each joint, even with the simplest of activities. Many obesity sufferers have knee problems for this very reason.
Sleep apnea. Respiratory problems are quite common, as well. The most common is sleep apnea. People who are diagnosed with this have a very difficult time breathing while they sleep. This makes them more tired during the day.
A recent study published by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that the combined direct and indirect health care costs resulting from obese and overweight Americans is estimated to be $117 billion per year. Statistics also demonstrate that death rates increase at least 200% for people who are 50 pounds or more overweight.The National Institute of Health (NIH) has stated that an increase of 20% beyond ‘ideal body weight’ is the point at which excess weight becomes a health risk. There are many diseases which often follow obesity – such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, sleep apnea, respiratory problems, bone and joint problems, coronary artery disease, stroke, some cancers, and many others. Each of these independently can have serious consequences to one’s health. The medical risks of diabetes are indeed profound.Dr. Janet L. Bruno MD is a recognized expert on obesity and weight loss surgery. Deciding to have weight loss surgery is a series of complex decisions --wouldn’t you want a coach and mentor to guide you all along the way? As a Board Certified Family Physician, her step-by-step instruction, motivation and guidance are unparalleled.
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