The Consequences of Being Obese

The risk of health complications increases as body weight rises. Even moderate excess weight increases the risk of health issues, particularly among adults aged 30 – 64 years. The National Institutes of Health reports that morbid obesity contributes to reduced life expectancy and is associated with an increased risk of developing conditions or diseases such as:

• Diabetes
• Stroke
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
• Coronary Artery Disease
• High Cholesterol
• Joint Problems
• Sleep Apnea and Respiratory Problems
• Cancer
• Reproductive Complications
• Quality of Life

Diabetes
Over 80% of people with diabetes are overweight or obese.

Heart Disease
The risk of heart disease, circulatory problems and stroke increases significantly in persons who are overweight or obese, as does high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and other complications.

Joint Problems
Excess weight can increase the risk of developing arthritis and related joint problems, as well as limit mobility and physical functionality.

Sleep Apnea
Obesity is a significant contributing factor to sleep apnea (interrupted breathing while sleeping).

Cancer
Excess weight and obesity are associated with an increased risk for some types of cancer including endometrial cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, kidney cancer, and postmenopausal breast cancer.

Reproductive Problems
Obesity in premenopausal women is associated with irregular menstrual cycles and infertility, and can impact reproductive abilities. Obesity during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of mortality for both the baby and the mother, and significantly increases the risk of maternal high blood pressure. In addition, women who are obese during pregnancy are more likely to have gestational diabetes and problems with labor and delivery.

Quality of Life
Being overweight or obese can affect quality of life by limiting mobility, physical endurance, and social interaction, and is associated with an increased risk of depression.