We often hear in the media – this blog included – that obesity is an epidemic in the United States, and move straight to discussing solutions to the problem. But lately I’ve found myself wondering, what exactly are the health consequences of being overweight or obese?
So, of course, I went on a hunt to find some evidence. It turns out there are many. The Harvard School of Public Health provides a great summary of the health risks of obesity with references – many of them systematic reviews.
Their summary finds obesity associated most strongly with the diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Meta-analyses have found significantly greater risks of developing coronary artery disease, stroke and cardiovascular death.
While the link between obesity and cancer is less clear, there is certainly still ample evidence that shows obesity is a risk factor for developing cancers. A major review of the data by the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research found evidence of an association between obesity and cancers of the esophagus, pancreas, colon and rectum, breast, endometrium, and kidney, and a probable association between obesity and gallbladder cancer. Since the report was released in 2007, the group is providing continuous updates about the evidence on diet, physical activity, body fatness and cancer.
There are other serious risks that come along with obesity: depression, dementia, infertility, asthma and arthritis.
I have to say that, personally, I was astounded by the sheer volume of evidence out there on the consequences of obesity. I know my fair share of people who are overweight. Reviewing the evidence bring their struggles into a whole new light for me. It doesn’t seem like you can live with obesity without some health consequence.
I did find one silver lining though. There is some pretty clear evidence in this report from the National Heart Blood and Lung Institute that losing some weight – even without reaching an ideal weight – offers some health benefits for adults who are obese. The clear take-home message here is to do what you can – eat more fruits and veggies, go for a walk, cut out junk food – to move toward a healthier weight.
Although I knew that there are many consequences of obesity, Some of the items mentioned here were a surprise. Obesity seems to be a growing problem in our country. The advise of eating well and exercising is still the best remedy.