Obesity FAQ's
How common is obesity today?
The incidence of obesity is exploding today thanks to our easy and unhealthy lifestyle. Rapid urbanization seems to be at the root of the problem (encouraging fast-food culture which are usually energy-dense and also a sedentary lifestyle). The estimates show that the incidence could be upwards of 50 % in our society.
Are obese people at risk of early death?
Obese people are at risk of developing lifestyle disorders like diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol abnormalities. These cumulatively increases the risk of death from cardiovascular disease (angina, heart attacks, heart failure)
Is obesity genetic/ Familial?
There is a strong genetic or familial element in obesity. There is always a history of a first or secondary-degree relative struggling with obesity. Obesity is also associated with a family history of other lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension and cholesterol abnormalities.
What causes obesity?
Obesity occurs because of many reasons. The main reasons are a) Genetic/ Familial b) mismatch between caloric intake ( increased food intake) and calories burnt ( less physical activity and exercise). Certain hormonal conditions like Hypothyroidism and Cushing’s Syndrome can cause obesity. Certain drugs( mostly used in psychiatry and in the management of diabetes) can also result in obesity.
How is obesity treated?
It all depends on the body mass index (BMI) of the individual. If the individual according to his or her BMI has mild to moderate obesity, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle modification (LSM) with diet and exercise is initiated. The patient is reviewed after 3 months and if no weight loss is noticed, pharmacotherapy is initiated to help the individual lose weight.
Who is a candidate for Bariatric or weight loss surgery?
Obese people whose BMI is over 33 ( among Asians or 35 in Caucasians) with one or more conditions like diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, arthritis of the knees, Obstructive sleep apnoea (snoring at night) are candidates for this surgery.
Who is a Bariatric Physician?
Endocrinologists who specialize in the medical treatment of obesity and the science behind it are called Bariatric Physicians.
Who are Bariatric Surgeons?
A surgeon who specializes in doing Weight loss/ Bariatric surgery (almost always done as a laparoscopic/ keyhole surgery) is called a Bariatric Surgeon.
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