Obesity

Obesity is a medical condition in which a person has an excessive amount of body fat that is accumulated to the point where it may have an adverse effect on their health. It is usually defined by a person’s BMI (body mass index), which is calculated by taking a person’s weight in kilograms and dividing it by the square of their height in meters. A BMI of over 30 is considered obese. Obesity is a complex disorder caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and behavioral factors. It is a major risk factor for many chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. People who are obese are also at an increased risk for developing mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Obesity can be treated through lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, and reducing stress. In some cases, medications and/or surgery may be needed to help a person achieve and maintain a healthy weight.