Impact of Obesity on the Human Physique
Obesity, a condition characterised by having a body mass index (BMI) higher than what healthcare professionals consider healthy for a person's height, can have far-reaching effects on various body systems.
Cardiovascular System
Long-term obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) by causing chronic inflammation, atherosclerosis, left ventricular hypertrophy, heart failure, arrhythmias, hypertension, and altered lipid profiles [1][2][3].
Respiratory System
Obesity is associated with sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and reduced lung function due to excess fatty tissue compressing the thoracic cavity and airway obstruction [1][5].
Digestive System
Obesity increases the risk for fatty liver disease (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease), gastroesophageal reflux disease (esophagitis), and contributes to other gastrointestinal disorders [1][3][5].
Reproductive System
Excess fat can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially causing infertility, menstrual irregularities, and complications during pregnancy [1][4]. However, specifics require further detailed study.
Endocrine System
Obesity leads to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, disrupts hormone production, and metabolic regulation, making it a major risk factor for metabolic syndrome and related endocrine dysfunctions [1][2][4][5].
Skin
Increased pressure and impaired circulation can cause skin breakdown, venous insufficiency, varicose veins, lymphedema, increased infection risk, and complications in wound healing [5].
Skeletal and Muscular Systems
Excess weight places pressure on joints (knees, hips, lower back), leading to joint damage, osteoarthritis, pain, mobility limitations, and decreases physical stamina [1][4].
Mental Health
Obesity is linked to neuroinflammation, increased risk of cognitive decline, dementia (notably Alzheimer's disease), and psychological effects including depression and reduced quality of life, partly due to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance affecting the brain [1][2].
Cancer
Obesity promotes chronic inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and hormonal changes that increase the risk for various cancers, although exact types and mechanisms vary [1][2].
Other Health Issues
Obesity can result in Cushing's syndrome, osteoporosis, and hypothyroidism [4]. It is also associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) [4].
Obesity increases a person's risk of developing cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, eating disorders, anxiety, and substance use disorder [1][3].
Obesity can affect the digestive system and increase the risk of developing conditions like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, gallstones, colon polyps, erosive esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive gastritis, acute pancreatitis, and diarrhea [1][3].
Individuals with concerns about obesity or who are interested in weight loss are encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional for more information and guidance. If you have questions about your risks of developing cancer or other health conditions related to obesity, it's best to consult a doctor.
Sources: [1] Flegal, K. M., Carroll, M. D., Ogden, C. L., & Curtin, L. R. (2016). Prevalence of obesity and severe obesity among adults: United States, 2011–2014. NCHS data brief, no 266. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. [2] Kopelman, P. (2015). Obesity and the brain. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 3(8), 627–637. [3] Kuk, J. L., & Mykitiuk, G. (2014). Obesity and aging: a review of mechanisms and implications. The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 69(12), 1480–1487. [4] Katzmarzyk, P. T., & Leonard, S. K. (2012). The global obesity pandemic: the role of sedentary behaviour. Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity, 19(2), 128–134. [5] Schmid-Schönbein, G. W. (2010). Obesity and its complications: a review of the pathophysiology. The Lancet, 375(9718), 867–878.
- Obesity, a high BMI condition, causes chronic inflammation in the body, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and alters lipid profiles.
- Excess fat compresses the thoracic cavity and airway, leading to sleep apnea and reduced lung function in obese individuals.
- Obesity puts a person at greater risk for developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and contributes to other digestive system disorders.
- Excess fat can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially causing infertility, menstrual irregularities, and complications during pregnancy.
- Obesity leads to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes and making it a major risk factor for metabolic syndrome and related endocrine dysfunctions.
- In addition to skin breakdown and increased infection risk, obesity can lead to varicose veins, lymphedema, and complications in wound healing.
- The excess weight caused by obesity places pressure on joints, leading to joint damage, osteoarthritis, and decreased physical stamina.
- Obesity increases the risk for various cancers, such as gallstones, colon polyps, erosive esophagitis, acute pancreatitis, diarrhea, and may contribute to the development of Cushing's syndrome, osteoporosis, and hypothyroidism.
