This article defines obesity and discusses why it is considered a disease and why some do not agree with this categorization. It also explains the causes of obesity and what can be done to reduce the condition.
Obesity is having a weight considered higher than is healthy for your height. Obesity also usually includes an excess accumulation of body fat that poses a health risk. This is typically defined by your body mass index (BMI).
BMI is a calculation of a person’s body fat based on height and weight. However, studies show that it is a poor indicator of a person’s body fat percentage. It can be misleading because the measure does not account for overall body composition. Factors the BMI measurement overlooks include bone density, muscle mass, and other considerations.
For additional information, talk with a doctor about other body fat assessment methods.
Having a BMI of 25–30 is considered overweight. Obesity is a BMI of 30 or higher. In 2020, 31.9% of U.S. adults over 18 years old had obesity or severe obesity.
The American Medical Association (AMA) voted in 2013 to recognize obesity as a disease. As a result, obesity was no longer seen as a cosmetic issue caused by overeating and a lack of self-control.
Instead, obesity was viewed as a condition or disease that requires treatment and prevention efforts.
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines disease as “a condition of the living animal or plant body or of one of its parts that impairs normal functioning and is typically manifested by distinguishing signs and symptoms.”
However, the definition of disease among medical professionals varies. As a result, many feel the decision to classify obesity as a disease does not work.
However, many medical communities and associations classify obesity as a disease, including the AMA, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Why obesity may not be a disease
One of the main reasons classifying obesity as a disease is controversial is because there is no single definition of disease among medical professionals.
This causes many in the medical community to question whether there is enough evidence to classify obesity as a disease instead of a behavioral issue.
One of the reasons the AMA voted to change the classification of obesity was to remove some of the stigma associated with it.
This stigma includes the idea that people with obesity have simply made poor lifestyle choices. Even though the disease classification may have removed some of the stigma, some still argue that there is a lack of evidence to support calling obesity a disease.
Still, many medical communities and associations do classify obesity as a disease to be treated.
Many factors may contribute to the development of obesity. How much and the types of food consumed are only two of those factors.
Some medical conditions can lead to weight gain, which can cause obesity. Conditions often associated with overweight or obesity include:
- polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- metabolic syndrome
- Cushing’s syndrome
- hypothyroidism
To maintain a moderate weight, any underlying medical issue needs to be treated.
A lack of physical activity can lead to weight gain and cause obesity. Many people today lead more sedentary lifestyles. This can lead to higher BMI levels and a prevalence of obesity.
The CDC recommends that adults get 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. This is about 30 minutes of activity 5 days a week. However, you can split the time up in whatever way is most feasible for you. Getting exercise on multiple days instead of only one or two days is more effective, though.
Genetics may play a greater role for those with obesity than those with overweight. Researchers have found that there are 15 genes that may contribute to the development of obesity.
Other factors that may cause obesity include:
- medications, such as antidepressants, birth control, and beta blockers
- high stress levels
- environmental factors, such as work, home, and the area you live in
- lack of quality sleep
You can reduce obesity or prevent it from developing by considering these lifestyle changes:
- Eating a healthy and balanced diet: This includes eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. It also involves limiting food and drinks with high levels of solid fats, sodium, and added sugars.
- Getting regular exercise: Following the CDC’s recommendations of getting 150 minutes of physical activity a week and moving around regularly can decrease obesity and reduce your risk of developing it.
- Getting plenty of sleep: The CDC states that adults should get at least 7 hours of sleep a day. Getting adequate sleep can help reduce weight and the risk of developing obesity.
- Treating underlying medical conditions: Seeking treatment for underlying medical conditions can help you maintain a moderate weight.
The AMA classified obesity as a disease in 2013. Though the decision is considered controversial, many medical communities agree with the classification.
Obesity is seen as a treatable and often preventable condition, which has helped remove some of the stigma.
You can reduce obesity or reduce your risk of developing it by eating a healthy and balanced diet, and getting regular exercise and adequate sleep.
If you have any questions or concerns about obesity, speak with a doctor.