Risks of Obesity: 5 Serious Health Problems Caused by Excess Weight

Obesity is a condition where excess fat accumulates in different parts of the body, including internal organs. Obesity can lead to serious health complications. Excess fat increases the burden on bones and organs. It also causes hormonal and metabolic changes.

1. Type 2 Diabetes In type 2 diabetes, blood sugar levels are higher than normal. Over time, this can lead to other health problems, such as cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, stroke, kidney diseases, and vision problems. If you are obese, losing 5-7% of your body weight and increasing physical activity can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.
2. Heart Diseases Heart diseases are more common among people with excess weight. Over time, fat deposits can accumulate in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. People with excess weight have higher blood pressure, low-density lipoproteins (“bad” cholesterol), triglycerides, and blood sugar levels, all of which contribute to the development of heart diseases. Narrowing of the arteries can also lead to a heart attack.
3. Stroke Stroke (disruption of blood circulation in the brain) and heart diseases share many risk factors. During a stroke, tissue death occurs in the brain, which can lead to a range of issues, including speech impairment, muscle weakness, and cognitive disorders.
4. Liver Diseases People with excess weight may develop various liver diseases, such as fatty liver disease or non-alcoholic steatohepatosis. This happens when excess fat accumulates in the liver. Its excess can damage the liver or cause tissue overgrowth, known as cirrhosis. Fatty liver disease is usually asymptomatic but can lead to liver failure over time.
5. Certain Types of Cancer Since cancer is not one single disease, the connection between cancer and obesity is not as obvious as with other diseases, such as heart disease and stroke. However, obesity can increase the risk of certain types of cancer, including colorectal, gallbladder, pancreatic, kidney, and prostate cancer.
6. Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea is a condition where a person may temporarily stop breathing while sleeping. Obesity can lead to sleep apnea. As a result, snoring and breathing difficulties may occur during the night, and it may lead to sudden awakenings. Losing weight can help reduce fat accumulation around the neck and decrease the risk of sleep apnea.