Understanding Obesity

Have you ever wondered what the word “obesity” really means? Maybe you heard it on TV. Or you have seen it in a headline in a newspaper or magazine. You likely have a general idea of what obesity is. You might think obesity has something to do with your weight. Or that it has something to do with how much you eat and how much you exercise. You might also think that it could be harmful to your health, or maybe you think that it doesn’t impact you.

That is not the whole story about obesity. Obesity is not as simple as eating too much food or not exercising enough. But it is about the much weight you carry on your body and the harm it can have on your health.

Today, obesity is a worldwide health concern with nearly 40 percent of Americans affected by it. It is a complex health condition; which means it is not your fault, something you need to face and manage alone, just about food or cured by a “quick fix” or “one-size-fits-all approach.” The truth is that obesity is a disease caused by many factors that is treatable and manageable with the help of a healthcare provider.

Measuring Your Weight

Having excess body weight is commonly known as being “overweight.” Being overweight or having obesity is more than a clothing size or a number on a scale. It can harm your health. One way to measure weight status is Body Mass Index (BMI).

Body fat is hard to measure directly, therefore, it’s often measured by BMI. BMI measures weight related to height. It is a common way to measure body fat and is one tool healthcare providers use when talking about weight. To calculate your BMI, please visit www.ObesityAction.org.

Understanding Obesity-related Conditions

Excess weight can be hard on your whole body. More than 50 health problems are related to having excess weight and obesity. These health problems are diseases and conditions that can decrease your quality of life. They are commonly called obesity-related conditions. They include high blood pressure, sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes. It is important totalk with your healthcare provider about these conditions.

It is also important to work with a healthcare provider to manage your weight and find a treatment plan that is right for you. Your plan will likely not be the same as for others, but early treatment is best for everyone. Weight-loss as small as 5-10 percent can improve your overall health.

Exploring Treatment Options

Many treatment options for obesity are available, but always talk with your healthcare provider before starting one. Making lifestyle and physical activity modifications along with medical weight management can bring the best success.

Focusing on manageable modifications to improve your health is the goal. Do not become discouraged. Healthy is a lifestyle, not a size.

Next Steps

Where do you go from here?

• Prepare to have a discussion about your weight with a healthcare profession by Taking the Your Weight MattersChallengeand receiving the Your Weight MattersToolkit.
• Find a healthcare professional in your area withObesityCareProviders.com.
• Learn more about obesity or to join the OAC Community by visiting www.ObesityAction.org.