Impact of Obesity

Obesity can take a toll on your body, your mental state, even your social life. Excessive weight can affect how well you move and how you feel about yourself.

The medical community continues to research how obesity affects the human body, but one thing is clear: Obesity can affect your health in many different ways.

What is obesity?

Obesity happens when you have too much body fat. There are different ways medical professionals measure body fat. Body mass index (BMI) is the most common measurement physicians use today.

A BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. Morbid obesity is when you have any one of these factors:

• Your BMI is 40 or higher.
• Your BMI is 35 or higher, and you have at least one obesity-related medical condition, such as diabetes.
• You are at least 100 lbs. over your ideal body weight.

Health risks of obesity

In general, the more body fat you have, the higher your overall health risks. People affected by severe obesity may experience one or more obesity-related conditions. Obesity paired with other health problems can reduce your quality of life and how long you live.

Common obesity-related conditions include:

• Type 2 diabetes: People with obesity are 400 times more likely to develop diabetes than people with a healthy BMI. If not managed properly, type 2 diabetes can reduce your life expectancy by as much as 35 percent. It can also lead to long-term complications, such as kidney disease and nerve pain.
• Heart disease and hypertension: Heart disease causes one in every four deaths today. Most people affected by obesity have hypertension (high blood pressure), which can lead to heart disease. Obesity also increases your risk of stroke.
• Respiratory disorders: People with obesity have reduced lung capacity. This puts you at higher risk for respiratory infections, asthma, and other breathing problems, such as sleep apnea.
• Cancer: People with higher BMIs are considered to be at higher risk of dying from certain types of cancer, such as breast, colon, and liver cancer.
• Musculoskeletal problems: Because of the strain excess fat puts on your bones and joints, obesity can increase your risk for osteoarthritis and spinal abnormalities. These conditions can cause pain while restricting your everyday movements.

A comprehensive bariatric surgery program

We understand the many obstacles that can pose a barrier to long-term weight loss. That’s why we offer a wide range of effective bariatric treatments to help you lose weight in a way that works for your life.

At our Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, you get access to experienced bariatric surgeons, diabetes specialists, and medical weight loss professionals – all in one place. This institute approach to care helps us address your weight while managing other health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Learn more about our obesity treatments.

When you choose AHN for weight loss care, you can expect:

• Expertise from board-certified bariatric surgeons, endocrinologists, and psychologists who specialize in helping people reach their weight loss goals
• Wide-ranging support, including financial counselors and support groups, to increase your chances for success at every point in your weight loss journey
• Wide variety of weight loss treatments, from medication and meal replacements to the most advanced bariatric surgeries available
• Convenience of multiple care locations so you can access bariatric expertise near you

Weight loss surgery: Attend a free information session

Are you ready to lose weight and improve your life? At one of our free information sessions, you can meet our weight loss specialists and learn more about bariatric surgery options. Find a session near you by calling (412) 235-5900 (select option 1).

Contact us

Schedule or find out more about our bariatric surgery services by calling (412) 235-5900 (select option 1).