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Obesity

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by excess body fat that increases the risk of various health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. It is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. BMI is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

Obesity is becoming increasingly common worldwide, with more than 650 million adults and 340 million children and adolescents being obese in 2016, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The prevalence of obesity has more than doubled since 1980, making it one of the most significant public health challenges of our time.

The causes of obesity are complex and multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Some of the most common causes of obesity include:

Consuming a diet high in calories, fat, and sugar

Leading a sedentary lifestyle with little physical activity

Genetics and family history of obesity

Certain medical conditions and medications that can cause weight gain

Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality

Chronic stress and emotional eating

Health Problems

Obesity can lead to several health problems, including:

Type 2 diabetes

High blood pressure

Heart disease

Stroke

Sleep apnea

Certain cancers

Osteoarthritis

Fatty liver disease

Treatment

Treatment for obesity typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity and improving diet quality, and sometimes medications or surgery. It's important to work with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account individual needs, preferences, and medical history.

Preventing obesity is also important, and it can be achieved through healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and getting enough sleep.

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