With obesity rates growing around the world, it is of no surprise that the consequences of obesity are also becoming more prevalent. Some of the most common consequences of obesity include the development of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and a decrease in the cartilage of joints. In addition, many people who suffer from obesity face high rates of depression and discrimination. Often, obese adults are so disturbed by this treatment that they are willing to risk their lives in order to lose weight.
One of the most common consequences of obesity is associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. While type 1 diabetes is considered a genetic defect, type 2 diabetes is most often caused by an increase in the amount of fatty tissue found in the body. While type 2 diabetes may initially seem like a very manageable condition, it can, in fact, lead to the development of a variety of more serious, chronic conditions. Untreated type 2 diabetes can lead to blindness, weight gain, amputation, and even possible death. In addition, when type 2 diabetes occurs in women who later become pregnant, the unborn baby can also suffer from a number of life-altering conditions.
The development of cardiovascular disease is another commonly occurring consequence of obesity. Cardiovascular disease encompasses a variety of conditions ranging from high blood pressure to heart failure. While cardiovascular disease can be caused by a number of risk factors, research by the American Heart Association has found that individuals who suffer form obesity are as much as three times more likely to be diagnosed with the condition than those who are not overweight or obese.
A decrease in bone health is one of most common consequences of obesity. This is caused by the additional amounts of stress placed upon the joints of the body. Over time, this increased stress leads to a decreased amount of cartilage in the knees, hips, ankles, and other joints. Unfortunately, this decrease in the cartilage of the joints is not reversible, and can only be treated through surgery or medical injections.
Obese individuals often suffer from a variety of social and mental consequences. Studies have shown that individuals who are obese not only are more likely to suffer from depression, but also may experience discrimination in both employment and personal situation. Often, people who are obese or overweight are so disturbed by their condition that they undergo life-threatening surgery in an attempt to lose weight.