Obesity
السمنة
A condition involving excess body fat that increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, joint problems, and other health issues. It is typically assessed using Body Mass Index (BMI), with a BMI of 30 or above generally classified as obese. Management usually combines diet, physical activity, behavioral support, and medical guidance.
This information is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Quick answer
Obesity is a chronic condition of excess body fat that can harm health. In adults it is commonly defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, though BMI is a screening tool and does not tell the whole story.
It often causes no symptoms by itself, but raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnoea, fatty liver, joint problems and some cancers.
Management is long-term and individual: nutrition, physical activity and behavioural support, with medicines or bariatric surgery for suitable people under specialist care. A doctor can assess your health risks and help build a realistic plan.
Symptoms
Excess body fat, especially around the waist
Waist size is a useful additional marker of health risk.
Breathlessness on exertion
Snoring and disturbed sleep
May indicate sleep apnoea.
Joint and back pain
Extra weight loads the knees, hips and spine.
Tiredness and low activity tolerance
Heartburn
Skin problems in folds
Such as irritation or fungal infection.
Effects on mood and self-esteem
Causes and risk factors
Causes
- Long-term energy imbalance — Regularly taking in more energy than the body uses.
- Environment and lifestyle — Highly processed foods, sugary drinks, large portions and sedentary work or leisure.
- Genetic and biological factors — Genes and appetite-regulating hormones strongly influence weight.
- Medical conditions and medicines — Hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome and some medicines can promote weight gain.
- Sleep, stress and psychological factors
Risk factors
- Family history of obesity
- Low physical activity
- Diet high in energy-dense, processed foods
- Poor or short sleep
- Certain medicines and medical conditions
- Weight gain in pregnancy or after quitting smoking
- Socioeconomic and environmental factors
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with measurements, followed by a review of health risks and any underlying causes.
Weight, height and BMI
BMI of 30 or above indicates obesity in most adults. Thresholds can differ for some ethnic groups and for children.
Waist circumference
Higher waist size indicates more abdominal fat and higher risk.
Health risk assessment
Blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, liver tests and screening for sleep apnoea.
Looking for underlying causes
For example thyroid tests when clinically appropriate.
Related tests
Treatment
Obesity is treated as a long-term condition. The best approach depends on your health, weight-related complications and preferences, and is best decided with your doctor.
Nutrition and eating habits
A balanced, sustainable eating pattern, often with help from a dietitian.
Physical activity
Gradually increasing regular activity you can maintain.
Behavioural and psychological support
Addressing habits, sleep, stress and emotional eating.
Medicines
For suitable people, prescription medicines can be used alongside lifestyle changes under medical supervision.
Bariatric (weight-loss) surgery
May be considered for people with severe obesity or obesity with serious complications, after specialist assessment.
Not every treatment suits every person. Do not use unregulated weight-loss products; discuss options with a doctor.
When should you see a doctor?
Arrange a medical assessment if
- Rapid, unexplained weight gain
- Loud snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep or daytime sleepiness
- Persistent joint or back pain
- Symptoms of diabetes such as increased thirst and frequent urination
- Weight gain that affects your mental health or daily life
- Considering medicines or surgery for weight loss
Seek urgent care if
- Chest pain or pressure
- Severe shortness of breath
- Swelling or pain in one leg, especially with breathlessness (possible blood clot)
Prevention
Eat a balanced diet
More vegetables, fruit, whole grains and lean protein; fewer sugary drinks and highly processed foods.
Be regularly active
Build activity into daily routine.
Sleep enough
Monitor your weight and waist over time
Seek early advice
Support is more effective when started before weight gain becomes significant.
Frequently asked questions
What is obesity?
It is a chronic condition of excess body fat that can harm health, commonly defined in adults by a BMI of 30 or higher.
Is obesity just a matter of willpower?
No. Genes, hormones, environment, sleep, stress, medicines and medical conditions all influence weight, along with eating and activity habits.
What health problems does obesity cause?
It raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnoea, fatty liver, osteoarthritis and some cancers.
Is BMI a reliable measure?
It is a useful screening tool but does not directly measure body fat or where it is stored. Doctors also consider waist size and health risks.
Do weight-loss medicines and surgery work?
For suitable people, prescription medicines and bariatric surgery can lead to significant, sustained weight loss, but they need specialist assessment and long-term follow-up.
How much weight loss improves health?
Even a modest loss can improve blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol. Your doctor can help set a realistic target.
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Medical sources
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