Given the worldwide explosion in cases of obesity, the World Health Organization has predicted that weight problems could have as great an impact on health as smoking. Knowing that recent U.S.-based studies indicate that obese individuals can lose more than 10 years of life compared to individuals of normal weight, the cause for international concern is obvious.
Canadians are unfortunately following the same trend. The 2000 Canadian Community Health Survey showed that 48% of the adult population (aged 20 to 64) was either overweight or obese. Some 15% of Canadian adults were considered obese — almost a 300% surge since 1985, when only 5.6% were in that category. Similar dramatic trends have been reported for Canadian children.
Learn more by reading the following:What causes obesity
Although a variety of factors may increase the risk of becoming obese or overweight, certain factors play a key role in most cases:
-
Excessive calorie consumption compared with one’s physical activity level
Foods rich in fat or sugar contain a large amount of calories. The recent fast food restaurant trend to “supersize” portions is making matters worse.
-
Lack of physical activity
According to 1995 statistics, two-thirds of obese individuals did not participate in regular moderate physical activity. Overall, in 2000, only 43% of the population was sufficiently physically active to stay in good health.
-
Age
Many adults seem unaware that calorie intake should be reduced as they get older since their metabolism slows down and/or they become less active.
In 2000, statistics showed that obesity rates increase with age: Over age 45,(1) almost 1 out of 5 persons is obese vs. approximately 1 out of 8 younger adults,(2) a 45% increase. -
Having obese parents
This factor can increase a child’s risk of obesity by 10 compared with a child born to normal-weight parents. Although some genes that increase the risk of developing obesity may be transmitted, family habits involving a lack of physical inactivity, high alcohol consumption and poor nutrition can clearly play a significant role.
-
Other factors can also play a role...
For example, childhood obesity, education and family income. Some types of medications, such as steroids and antidepressants, and, in rare cases hormone disorders (about 2%), also make weight gain more likely.
Health risks
In addition to the health risks and the increased chances of developing cardiovascular illnesses, including high blood pressure and angina, some types of cancer, such as breast cancer, prostate and colon cancer, type 2 diabetes, respiratory difficulties and musculoskeletal injuries (fractures, muscle pain, etc.), obesity can also lead to psychological problems, such as depression, eating disorders and low self-esteem.
For additional information on the risks related to obesity, we invite you to consult the following websites: the Canadian Diabetes Association and the Heart & Stroke Foundation, toll-free 1 888 473 4636).
Fighting obesity
Clearly, adopting healthy eating habits and a physically active life play a key role both in preventing obesity and maintaining a healthy weight. Since weight gain is strongly influenced by one's lifestyle, namely a lack of physical activity, poor nutritional habits and high alcohol consumption, it is preventable and even reversible.
A first and important step in fighting obesity is to have a clear idea of our current weight as well as the weight we want to reach, which is based on our specific health conditions. A self-evaluation using recognized tools and a consultation with our physician and other health specialists, such as a nutritionist, can contribute significantly to providing a complete picture and establishing a realistic game plan.
Research has shown that overweight or obese individuals can decrease their health risks with just a 5% to 10% weight loss. An initial weight loss of 10% of body weight, achieved over six months, is a recommended target. The rate of weight loss should be one to two pounds each week. Faster weight loss does not achieve better long-term results and may trigger health complications.
(1) 45-54 and 55-64 age groups combined: 18.5% average
(2) 20-34 and 35-44 age groups combined: 12.75% average
Statistical sources:
Statistics Canada, National Population Health Survey - 1994/95, Canadian Community Health Survey - 2000/01.
Other source:
The Clinical Guidelines on the Identification, Evaluation and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults: Evidence Report. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. September 1998, NIH pub. No. 98-4083.