Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excess accumulation of body fat to the extent that it may have adverse effects on health. It is typically assessed using body mass index (BMI), with a BMI of 30 or higher considered obese.

Obesity increases the risk of various health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.

Effective weight loss strategies include seeking support from healthcare professionals, adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, increasing physical activity, practicing portion control, reducing calorie intake, and addressing underlying psychological factors through counselling or therapy.

Yes, there are prescription medications approved for weight loss that work by suppressing appetite, reducing fat absorption, or increasing metabolism. These medications are typically prescribed for individuals with obesity or those with obesity-related health conditions.

Bariatric surgery is a surgical procedure performed to promote weight loss by altering the digestive process or reducing stomach size. Candidates for bariatric surgery often have severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40) or a BMI ≥ 35 with obesity-related health complications that have not responded to other weight loss interventions.

To prevent weight, regain, it’s essential to adopt sustainable lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity, healthy eating habits, portion control, ongoing support from healthcare professionals or support groups, and addressing emotional or psychological triggers for overeating.

While it’s important to focus on overall health and well-being rather than just weight, excess body fat, especially when centralized around organs (visceral fat), can increase the risk of health problems. Therefore, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is generally beneficial for overall health.