Dangers of obesity

Definition of obesity

Obesity is the #2 cause of preventable death, second only to smoking. Being overweight or obese means an excess or abnormal amount of body fat, posing a health risk.

Linked to cancer

About 55% of women’s and 24% of men’s cancer diagnoses are associated with being overweight or obese. These include at least 13 different cancers, including colorectal, breast, ovarian, and pancreatic cancer.

Obesity: hand-in-hand with the #1 cause of death

Coronary heart disease is the #1 cause of death in the U.S.; over 80% of patients with this disease are overweight or obese. Decreasing excess weight lowers your blood pressure and your risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Decreasing obesity to decrease diabetes risk

For those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, just 30 minutes of walking 5 days a week and a 5-7% decrease in body weight can decrease your risk by 58%.

Effects on mental health

70-80% of obese people have mental health issues, 20-60% more than the non-obese population. Obesity is also linked to a 55% increased risk of depression and a 25% increased risk of anxiety and mood disorders.

Change is possible

If you’re concerned about your health, or you’re struggling physically or mentally with your weight, our providers, psychologists, and nutritionists are here to help you get back on track and enjoy a better quality of life!