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Consequences of Obesity, Obesity
Risks, Health Risks
Obesity is more than a cosmetic
problem; it is a health hazard.
Approximately 280,000 adult deaths
in the United States each year are
related to obesity. Several serious
medical conditions have been linked
to obesity, including type 2
diabetes, heart disease, high blood
pressure, and stroke. Obesity is
also linked to higher rates of
certain types of cancer. Obese men
are more likely than non-obese men
to die from cancer of the colon,
rectum, or prostate. Obese women are
more likely than non-obese women to
die from cancer of the gallbladder,
breast, uterus, cervix, or ovaries.
Other diseases and health problems
linked to obesity include:
Gallbladder disease and gallstones.
Liver disease.
Osteoarthritis, a disease in which
the joints deteriorate. This is
possibly the result of excess weight
on the joints.
Gout, another disease affecting the
joints.
Pulmonary (breathing) problems,
including sleep apnea in which a
person can stop breathing for a
short time during sleep.
Reproductive problems in women,
including menstrual irregularities
and infertility.
Health care providers generally
agree that the more obese a person
is, the more likely he or she is to
develop health problems.
Psychological and social effects
Emotional suffering may be one of
the most painful parts of obesity.
American society emphasizes physical
appearance and often equates
attractiveness with slimness,
especially for women. Such messages
make overweight people feel
unattractive.
Many people think that obese
individuals are gluttonous, lazy, or
both, even though this is not true.
As a result, obese people often face
prejudice or discrimination in the
job market, at school, and in social
situations. Feelings of rejection,
shame, or depression are common.
Content Courtesy : win.niddk.nih.gov
Note : Information herein is
provided for informational purposes
only and is not a substitute for
professional medical advice. You
should not use this information for
diagnosing or treating a medical or
health condition. If you have or
suspect you have a medical problem,
promptly contact your professional
healthcare provider. Please consult
your healthcare provider before
beginning any course of
supplementation or treatment.
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