Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health, leading to reduced life expectancy and/or increased health problems. Body Mass Index (BMI), a measurement which compares weight and height, defines people as overweight (pre-obese) if their BMI is between 25 and 30 kg/m2, and obese when it is greater than 30 kg/m2.

It is a leading preventable cause of death worldwide, and has shown an alarming increase in the population worldwide, particularly among children and young adults. Authorities view it as one of the most serious public health problems of the 21st century. It increases the risk of many physical and mental conditions like metabolic syndrome, which includes disorders like Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and high triglyceride levels. One of the strongest is the link with Type 2 Diabetes.

COMMON CAUSES

- Excessive food energy intake

- Lack of physical activity

- Genetic predisposition

- Endocrine disorders

- Psychiatric illness

- Medications

RISK FACTORS

It is an invitation to other diseases, particularly -

- Heart diseases

- Type 2 Diabetes

- Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)

- Osteoarthritis

- also certain types of cancer

Treatment options include a balanced diet exercise and are the mainstays of the treatment for obesity.
Following options are tried for weight loss in scientific way:-

- Balanced diet: It is also important to improve diet quality by reducing the consumption of energy-dense foods such as high fat and sugary food, and by increasing the intake of dietary fiber.

- Regular exercise: People with diabetes are encouraged to exercise regularly for better blood sugar control and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

- Anti-obesity drugs: to reduce appetite or inhibit fat absorption may be used to supplement diet control and regular exercise.

- Bariatic Surgery:

• 1. Gastric bypass surgery - is needed in severe cases of Obesity.

• 2. Intragastric balloon surgery - an intra-gastric balloon is placed to reduce stomach volume and/or bowel length, leading to earlier satiation and reduced ability to absorb nutrients from food.

• 3. Gastric banding / lap band surgery

• 4. Vertical sleeve gastrectomy