Studies confirm that obesity is a disease and not a disorder of willpower. These are powerful words, especially for the millions of people who are blamed and ridiculed for their weight problem.
Like many other chronic diseases, some people are more susceptible to obesity than others. The disease often runs in families, and in some cases, obesity is harder to control than in other cases. Obesity is impacted by lifestyle, however it can be overcome.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adult obesity rates in the United States now exceed 36.5%. The tri-state area is below the national average for the percent of adults aged 18 years and older who have obesity.
- Indiana 31.1%
- Kentucky 34.6%
- Illinois 30.8%
Related Health Conditions
As weight increases, the risk of multiple chronic conditions increases. Health problems commonly associated with increased weight include:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Coronary artery disease
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Gallbladder disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Sleep apnea
- Respiratory problems
- Irregular menstruation
- Stress incontinence
Social and Psychological Effects
One of the most painful aspects of obesity may be the emotional suffering it causes. Obese people may face prejudice or discrimination at school, on the job and in family and social situations. You may also struggle with:
- Limited choice of clothing sizes
- Limited physical activities
- Open ridicule in public
- Low self-esteem
- Loneliness and depression
- Despair and frustration
- Employment discrimination, despite many federal and state laws
Obesity can be overcome. You don't have to live with it. In fact, you have a responsibility to control it. There are more options now than ever for reaching and maintaining a healthy weight.