Frequently Asked Questions On Obesity

Obesity may pose many health risks and can be a cause of diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, gallbladder disease, breathing problems, certain types of cancer, chronic back pain, and osteoarthritis.

Daily aids like exercise equipment, bariatric pressure relief mattresses, extra wide toilet seats, bariatric chairs, bathroom aids etc. may help people with obesity.

A surgery may be advised by the doctor if your body mass index (BMI) is 35 or higher and you have risk factors, or your BMI is 40 or higher with no risk factors.

Osteoporosis may occur due to the following reasons:

• Family history
• Frequent falls
• A previous fracture
• Long-term bed rest
• Little physical activity
• Low body weight
• A diet low in calcium and vitamin D
• High alcohol intake
• Smoking
• Certain medications in long-term use such as corticosteroids
• Age 60+
• Chronic disorders such as anorexia nervosa, malabsorption syndromes including coeliac disease and Crohn''s disease, chronic liver disease, primary hyperparathyroidism, post-transplantation, chronic renal failure, hyperthyroidism, Cushing''s syndrome, arthriti

If you have a family history with osteoporosis or any personal risk factors that may affect your bone health you must undertake these preventive measures - ensure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D each day, eat a healthy diet, do regular weight-bearing exercises, say no to alcohol and smoke and contact your healthcare professional.