1. What is obesity?
Obesity is a condition where excess body fat accumulates, leading to negative effects on health. It is usually defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more.
2. What causes obesity?
Eating more calories than the body uses (overeating, junk food)
Lack of physical activity
Genetic factors (family history)
Hormonal problems (hypothyroidism, PCOS, Cushing’s syndrome)
Stress and emotional eating
Certain medications (steroids, antidepressants)
3. What are the symptoms of obesity?
Excess body weight and fat
Shortness of breath on exertion
Tiredness and fatigue
Snoring or sleep apnea
Joint pain (knees, back)
Low self-esteem or depression (in some cases)
5. What health problems can obesity cause?
Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure and heart disease
Stroke
Osteoarthritis (joint problems)
Sleep apnea and breathing disorders
Fatty liver disease
Certain cancers (breast, colon, uterus)
Infertility (in men and women)
6. How can obesity be treated?
Lifestyle changes:
Healthy balanced diet (low sugar, low fat, high fiber)
Regular physical activity (30–60 min/day)
Stress management, good sleep
Medications: For appetite control or fat absorption (only under doctor’s advice)
Bariatric surgery: In severe cases (gastric bypass, sleeve surgery)
Counseling: To address emotional eating and motivation