The obesity epidemic has rapidly increased worldwide and become a major public health problem. In its statement published on the occasion of World Obesity Day, the Turkish Medical Association emphasized that obesity is a global problem. According to recently published studies, the number of obese people worldwide has exceeded one billion. Since the 1980s, obesity rates have doubled in more than 70 countries; The obesity rate in children and adolescents has increased 2-4 times. According to the health research of the Turkish Statistical Institute, more than 20% of the population in Turkey is obese. This increase has caused obesity to become a "global epidemic".

Effects of Obesity on Health

Relationship with Disease and Death

The association of excess weight with disease and death has been known for centuries. Millions of people die every year around the world due to obesity and related diseases. Cardiovascular system diseases are among the leading causes of death in the world, and obesity is an important cause of these diseases. Additionally, obesity; It can also lead to type 2 diabetes, hypertension, stroke, cancer and skeletal system diseases.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Obesity is one of the main factors that increases the risk of heart diseases. Excess weight puts extra pressure on the heart and raises blood pressure. This significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Obese individuals are more likely to have serious heart conditions such as coronary artery disease and heart failure.

Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity increases the risk of type 2 diabetes by causing insulin resistance. Excess fat tissue inhibits the body's use of insulin and causes blood sugar to rise. Diabetes can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss and nerve damage.

Cancer

Obesity has been linked to various types of cancer. Research shows that obese individuals have an increased risk of breast, colon, endometrium and kidney cancer. Excess weight can contribute to the development of cancer by changing hormone levels.

Skeletal System Diseases

Obesity puts excessive stress on joints and leads to joint diseases such as osteoarthritis. Excess weight can cause pain and loss of function in the knee, hip and waist area. This condition restricts mobility and reduces quality of life.

Definition and Measurement of Obesity

World Health Organization Definition

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as excessive or abnormal fat accumulation in the body. The most commonly used method to measure obesity is a measurement called body mass index (BMI), which expresses the ratio of weight to the square of height. BMI defines those over 30 kg/m² as obese, and those between 25-29,99 kg/m² as overweight.

BMI Calculation and Classification

BMI is calculated by the formula weight (kg) / height (m²). This measurement is used to determine the weight status of individuals and guides obesity classification. BMI is considered a general health indicator for adults, but it does not account for individual differences such as muscle mass and distribution.

Fighting Obesity: Challenges and Solutions

Global Challenges

The challenges experienced globally in the fight against obesity are a matter of debate. All over the world, the fight against obesity is addressed more through treatment-oriented and individual responsibilities. However, this approach does not appear to be effective. There is a similar situation in Turkey. Moreover, the fact that the Ministry of Health boasts that the society is getting sick more and the number of admissions to hospitals is increasing is worrying in terms of the fight against obesity and preventable diseases.

Increase in Obesity in Capitalist Countries

The effect of the changing world and social order on the increase in obesity should not be ignored. It is observed that the obesity rate is increasing among the poor, especially in central capitalist countries. Unbalanced eating habits, widespread class inequalities and exploitation, worsening working conditions and irregular lifestyles play an important role in the increase of obesity.

New Approaches to Fight Obesity

Preventive Health Services

Instead of current treatment-oriented approaches in the fight against obesity, an action plan should be created that gives importance to preventive health services. Increasing access to healthy nutrition and physical activity are important steps in the fight against obesity. Additionally, public awareness and healthy lifestyles need to be encouraged.

Community-Based Interventions

Community-based interventions are an effective strategy to combat obesity. Individuals can be encouraged to have a healthy diet and physical activity through healthy living campaigns, school programs and community events. Such interventions can be effective in reducing obesity rates by reaching the general population.

Political and Economic Measures

Political and economic measures are also of great importance in the fight against obesity. Policies such as increasing the accessibility of healthy foods, increasing taxes on unhealthy foods, and advertising restrictions can be implemented. Additionally, encouraging healthy lifestyle programs and increasing physical activity opportunities in workplaces may also be effective in combating obesity.

Conclusion

The obesity epidemic is recognized as a major public health problem worldwide. It seems that treatment-oriented approaches are insufficient in the fight against obesity. Strategies to increase access to preventive health services, healthy nutrition and physical activity need to be adopted. Effective fight against obesity is possible with interventions that reach the general population.

FAQ

What is obesity?
Obesity is a health condition characterized by excessive accumulation of fat in the body. Genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors can cause obesity.

What are the health effects of obesity?
Obesity is associated with serious health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke and some types of cancer.

How is obesity measured?
Obesity is measured using body mass index (BMI). BMI is calculated by the formula weight (kg) / height (m²), and individuals over 30 kg/m² are classified as obese.

What approaches can be effective in combating obesity?
Strategies for preventive health services, increasing access to healthy nutrition and physical activity, community-based interventions and policy measures can be effective in combating obesity.

What are community-based interventions to combat obesity?
Healthy living campaigns, school programs, and community events are among the community-based interventions that encourage individuals to engage in healthy eating and physical activity.

What are the political and economic measures in the fight against obesity?
Political and economic measures such as increasing the availability of healthy foods, increasing taxes on unhealthy foods, advertising restrictions, and promoting healthy lifestyle programs in workplaces can be effective in combating obesity.

External Link Suggestions

• Turkish Medical Association Official Website
• World Health Organization – Obesity and Overweight
• Turkish Statistical Institute Health Research

Digestive system health and community-based approaches are of great importance in combating the obesity epidemic. These new perspectives can contribute to reducing obesity rates and improving overall public health.

Source: HORECA TREND, Science and Health News Agency

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