Understanding Obesity: Why Excess Weight Is More Than a Cosmetic Problem

Overweight is often reduced to mere outward appearance. From a medical perspective, however, obesity is a chronic disease that can have serious effects on health.

At JUVENIS in Vienna, we emphasize a holistic approach to health. This also includes providing information about conditions that can increase the risk of numerous complications.

Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) over 30. The condition usually arises from an interplay of various factors.

These include, among others:

• genetic predisposition
• hormonal influences
• Lifestyle and diet
• Physical inactivity
• Psychological stress

Obesity is not a matter of lacking discipline, but a complex chronic disease that should be considered on an individual basis.

Severe overweight can strain multiple organ systems and increase the risk of various diseases.

These include:

Persistently high blood pressure puts strain on the heart and blood vessels and increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Obesity is one of the main risk factors for the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Vascular calcification (atherosclerosis) can contribute in the long term to heart attack or stroke.

Increased body weight puts strain on the joints, especially the knees, hips and spine.

The skin can also be affected. Increased irritation, inflammation in skin folds, or certain skin changes often occur.

Particularly relevant is the so-called metabolic syndrome. It is characterized by the simultaneous presence of several risk factors:

• Overweight
• High blood pressure
• elevated blood sugar levels
• lipid metabolism disorders

This combination significantly increases the risk of serious complications.

The earlier health risks are recognized, the better countermeasures can be initiated.

Important components are:

• balanced diet
• Regular exercise
• Medical care
• long-term lifestyle changes

A realistic and sustainable approach is essential.

Health is more than a number on the scale. Individual medical care helps to identify risks early and to develop appropriate measures.

Obesity is a serious chronic disease and not merely a cosmetic issue. It can have numerous health consequences and should be medically managed early.

A holistic view of health, prevention and lifestyle can help improve quality of life in the long term and reduce health risks.

General practitioner Dr. Daniela Themmer, JUVENIS Medical Center Wien, discusses obesity, overweight, diets, preventive care and dietary changes on the platform Diversityguide.at. The full article can be read online here: www.diversityguide.at/2520

Private photo by Dr. Daniela Themmer

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