OBESITY: THE DOWNSIDE AND IT’S PROBABLE SOLUTIONS

In an interview with Deepkamal Kaur, Dr G S Jammu, a bariatric surgeon in Jalandhar, emphasized the importance of addressing obesity promptly. He explained that obesity is insidious, gradually affecting every organ in the body and posing serious health risks

RISK FACTORS FOR OBESITY?

Excess weight increases the risk of heart disease and certain cancers (breast and colon), while also causing serious problems like severe sleep apnea, high blood pressure, painful joint damage from osteoarthritis, and significant mental health issues including anxiety and depression. These conditions substantially reduce quality of life and can shorten lifespan.

HOW DOES OBESITY ESSENTIALLY TRIGGER DIABETES?

In simple terms, obesity disrupts the mechanism that tells the liver when to make glucose during periods without food. This disruption causes the liver to inappropriately produce glucose even when blood sugar levels are adequate, leading to insulin resistance and eventually diabetes.

HOW DOES ADDED FAT INCREASE HEART ATTACK PROBABILITY?

Excess body fat releases various harmful substances that can damage blood vessels and organs. Each additional pound of weight gain typically raises blood pressure, which consequently increases the risk of heart attack.

DOES OBESITY MAKE ONE INFECTION PRONE? AND IF SO, HOW?

Excess body fat compromises immune function. Fat cells emit misleading inflammatory signals suggesting infection, even when no pathogens are present. This chronic false alarm exhausts the immune system, making people with obesity more vulnerable to various infections, including COVID-19.

DOES IT AFFECT THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM TOO?

Obesity increases the chances of development of conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gallstones, liver damage, and even liver failure. Also, obesity can negatively impact the reproductive system, making individuals more prone to infertility and sexual dysfunction, to name a few.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO OBESE PEOPLE LISTENING OUT THERE?

Obesity remains highly stigmatized, preventing many from seeking medical help. Effective treatment goes beyond willpower alone, requiring a comprehensive, evidence-based approach. While lifestyle modifications like balanced nutrition and regular exercise are fundamental, some cases are strongly influenced by genetics and environment, with patients having tried numerous strategies without success. In these situations, medical interventions become necessary options.

TO READ MORE, OPEN THE LINK BELOW:

https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/obesity-risks-impact-surgical-solutions