Defining Obesity
Obesity is more than a lifestyle problem. It is the fifth-leading cause of death worldwide – a global health problem affecting more than 650 million adults. The CDC, the Food and Drug Administration and the American Medical Association recognize obesity as a multi-faceted chronic disease requiring long-term management. This is important, as historical thinking about obesity has resulted in significant stigma and bias that is pervasive throughout the health care system and can act as a barrier to effective weight management.
Obesity is second only to cigarette smoking as the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. and is associated with chronic conditions including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Individuals who have been diagnosed with depression are also more likely to have obesity. According to the CDC, 43% of adults with depression have obesity.
Obesity is often underdiscussed, underdiagnosed, undertreated and underreported.
Obesity is often the root cause of other medical conditions and these costly comorbidities often become the focus of treatment. It is important to recognize obesity as a chronic disease with serious health consequences. Treatment should be geared to address the underlying cause of obesity.