Obesity is defined as an excess of total body fat. While there are several methods used to determine total body fat, the most practical method is the measure of your Body Mass Index (BMI). The BMI is significantly correlated with total body fat content. It is a very accurate measure, much more so than actual weight, and a better tool for measuring health risks.
Though the relationship between BMI and risk of disease varies from person to person, the general measurement can be used to predict risk with a large measure of accuracy.
During studies performed in recent years, it has been determined that the physical state of obesity in the United States is steadily increasing. Using the most recent measurement methods, a 1998 panel on obesity states nearly 55% of the adult population can be classified as overweight. Even more disturbing, the number of obese people is on the rise.
Weight gain occurs mainly in the young and middle-aged populace and cuts across all subgroups regardless of age, ethnicity, geographic location, or socioeconomic status. Women, however, do seem to outnumber men in the category of overweight, particularly in certain ethnic groups such as African- and Mexican-Americans. A most alarming statistic is the increasing number of children who are classified overweight or obese.
Experts in the field tend to point to a more sedentary life style and poor eating habits as underlying causes for the increase in numbers of overweight children. It follows that the likelihood of overweight children becoming overweight adults is clinically very high. Statistics point to the fact that nearly 80% of all obese adolescents will become obese adults. This leads to an increased morbidity (sickness) and mortality as compared to those who become obese in their adult lives.
The many health hazards associated with obesity are myriad and documented. Excess body fat has been associated with numerous health risks, many of which are life threatening. Cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, gout, osteoarthritis, respiratory dysfunctions and certain forms of cancer have all been linked to obesity.
Specifically, in the cancer category, excessive body fat has been shown to increase the risk for colorectal, prostate, breast, cervical, biliary tract, and certain kidney types.
Obesity has also been associated with numerous psychological involvements. Lack of self esteem, binge eating disorders, social stigma and diminished quality of life are all included in this area. Overweight (obese) people will have higher incidences of depression when compared with those of normal weight.
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