Weight classification
- Overweight: an adult is considered overweight when their body mass index (BMI) is between 25 and 29,9.
- Obesity : obesity is defined as a BMI greater than or equal to 30. In this case, the percentage of body fat is significantly higher.
BMI may not accurately reflect body composition in some people, such as athletes. It is therefore advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive body composition assessment.
Demographic statistics
Comprehensive epidemiological data reveal a worrying trend in body weight classification among the adult population, with more than a third of adults classified as obese.
This figure highlights a significant public health problem, as obesity is a well-established risk factor for a multitude of chronic diseases.
Among children and adolescents, specifically those aged 6 to 19, the situation is equally concerning. Around a third are considered overweight or obese, indicating the early onset of weight-related health problems that may persist into adulthood.
Obesity is prevalent among young people, with more than one in six children and adolescents being obese. There is therefore an urgent need for targeted interventions and educational campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles from an early age.
The consequences of obesity
Obesity considerably increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. It is associated with conditions such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia and type 2 diabetes, which are cardiovascular risk factors.
Furthermore, obesity is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. According to a recent study, obesity is involved in the aetiology of 4% of cancers in men and 7% in women, because of the complex interaction between hormonal, inflammatory and metabolic factors associated with excess weight.
In summary, the statistics paint a bleak picture of obesity and highlight its impact on health. Clearly, obesity is not simply an aesthetic issue, but a critical factor significantly influencing the risk of developing diseases.
Addressing the problem requires a combination of public health measures, awareness programmes and lifestyle changes.
Causes of obesity
Obesity is a medical condition characterised by an excessive accumulation of body fat, resulting from a complex interaction between genetic, environmental, behavioural and physiological factors. Although obesity has multiple causes, a sustained energy imbalance, resulting from calorie intake exceeding energy expenditure, is widely recognised as the primary factor in its development.
- Lack of physical activity: physical activity is essential for burning calories. Without it, the body does not burn enough calories, leading to an accumulation of body fat. Incorporating moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking, into your daily routine is crucial, also to improve general health.
- Unhealthy eating habits: weight gain is mainly due to excessive calorie consumption relative to energy expenditure. A diet high in refined carbohydrates, low in fruit and vegetables and characterised by unbalanced meals contributes significantly to excess weight. Keeping a food diary can help you understand and manage your eating habits better.
- Insufficient sleep: lack of sleep disrupts appetite-regulating hormones, increasing ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and reducing leptin (the satiety hormone). This imbalance leads to cravings for high-calorie foods. Quality sleep, generally between seven and nine hours a night, is essential to maintain hormonal balance and prevent weight gain.
- Medication: some medicines can cause weight gain by altering metabolism or increasing appetite. It is important to consult a doctor to manage these side effects, alongside adopting a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
- Pregnancy: weight gain during pregnancy is normal and necessary for foetal development. However, losing weight after childbirth can be difficult because of hormonal changes and the demands of caring for a newborn. Appropriate follow-up may be essential to help women manage their weight post-partum.
- Medical conditions: certain underlying diseases, such as Prader-Willi syndrome or Cushing's syndrome, can cause weight gain through the interaction of genetic and hormonal factors. A comprehensive medical assessment is needed to diagnose and treat these conditions correctly.
Weight management strategies
Tackling obesity requires comprehensive care:
- A balanced diet: rich in fruit, vegetables, fibre, protein and healthy fats.
- Regular physical activity: a combination of aerobic, strength and flexibility exercises.
- Support from those around you: the importance of support from friends and family in maintaining healthy behaviours.
- Monitoring food intake: keeping a food diary to improve eating habits.
- A positive mindset: motivate yourself with visual reminders of the progress made.
Consulting a healthcare professional is strongly recommended for personalised advice and a suitable weight management plan.
Solutions in aesthetic medicine
Aesthetic medicine treatments can help you get back into shape.
Cryolipolysis, which uses cold to destroy fat cells in a targeted, non-invasive way, helps speed up the loss of localised fat bulges.
Body mesotherapy injections are useful for drainage and treating water retention.
onda cool-waves and radiofrequency improve skin quality.
Hyaluronic acid injections, particularly using the non-surgical facelift technique, treat facial sagging that can be caused by significant weight loss.
