Overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health. Obesity isn’t just a cosmetic concern. It increases risk of diseases and health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Body mass index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square of his height in meters (kg/m2).
| BMI | Weight status |
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5-24.9 | Normal |
| 25.0-29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0-34.9 | Obese (Class I) |
| 35.0-39.9 | Obese (Class II) |
| 40.0 and higher | Extreme obesity (Class III) |
BMI provides the most useful population-level measure of overweight and obesity as it is the same for both sexes and for all ages of adults. However, it should be considered a rough guide because it may not correspond to the same degree of fatness in different individuals.
Obesity usually results from a combination of causes and contributing factors, including:
- Genetics
- Family lifestyle
- Inactivity
- Unhealthy diet
- Medical problems
- Certain medications
- Social and economic issues
- Age
- Pregnancy
- Quitting smoking
- Lack of sleep
Overweight and obesity, as well as their related noncommunicable diseases, are largely preventable. Supportive environments and communities are fundamental in shaping people’s choices, by making the choice of healthier foods and regular physical activity the easiest choice (the choice that is the most accessible, available and affordable), and therefore preventing overweight and obesity. Diet and exercise is an option for many person. However, some persons may fail diet and exercise and be at a high risk for disease-related complications due to obesity. In these patients, weight loss surgery may be an option. However, not everyone is a candidate for weight-loss surgery. Weight loss surgery is a permanent procedure that requires a lifetime commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a proper diet.
The advantages to weight loss surgery are many:
- Improved overall health
- Lowered risk of weight-associated diseases, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis and sleep apnea
- Decreased need for medications
- Easier mobility
- Enhanced self-esteem and quality-of-life
- Potentially a longer lifespan
Types of Weight Loss Surgery
The four most common types of weight loss surgery are: