Obesity: Risks, impact, surgical solutions
In an interview with Deepkamal Kaur, Dr G S Jammu, a bariatric surgeon in Jalandhar, emphasised the importance of addressing obesity promptly. He explained that obesity is insidious, gradually affecting every organ in the body and posing serious health risks if left unchecked.
What are the various risks associated with obesity?
Obesity not only predisposes individuals to cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers, including breast and colon cancer, but also contributes to lesser-discussed issues like severe sleep apnea, hypertension, debilitating joint pain from osteoarthritis, and significant mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. These complications can significantly diminish quality of life and increase mortality risk.
Obesity is also known to trigger diabetes. How does this happen?
To explain it simply, the switch that signals the liver to produce glucose during fasting malfunctions in obese individuals. This malfunction causes the liver to produce glucose even when it’s not needed, which leads to insulin resistance and triggers the onset of diabetes.
How does added fat increase the chances of a heart attack?
Fat adds a variety of harmful chemicals that damage arteries and body tissues. For every pound of weight gained, blood pressure rises, which in turn increases the risk of heart attacks.
Does obesity also make a person prone to infections? If yes, how?
Yes, obesity weakens the body’s defense system. The fat cells, in an attempt to protect themselves, release false signals that they are diseased, even when they aren’t being attacked by pathogens. People suffering from obesity are more susceptible to illnesses, including COVID-19, because their immune system is overburdened by the fat cells.
Does it have an impact on the digestive system too?
Obesity increases the risk of conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gallstones, liver damage, and even liver failure. Additionally, obesity can impact the reproductive system, making individuals more prone to infertility and sexual dysfunction.
What are your recommendations for obese people?
There is still considerable social stigma surrounding obesity, which causes many individuals to avoid consulting a doctor. Combatting obesity requires more than just willpower; it demands a comprehensive, science-backed approach. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet and increasing physical activity, form the foundation of treatment. However, in some cases, genetics and environmental factors play a significant role, and patients may have exhausted all other options. It’s in such instances that medical intervention becomes necessary.
What is the stage when you recommend bariatric surgery?
We measure obesity using Body Mass Index (BMI), which calculates your weight relative to your height. The WHO categorises obesity as follows: BMI > 30 (Class 1 obesity), BMI > 35 (Class II - serious obesity), and BMI > 40 (Class III - severe obesity). Minimally invasive bariatric weight-loss surgery is recommended if your BMI is > 32.5 with Type-2 diabetes or other obesity-related co-morbidities, or if your BMI is > 37.5 without any obesity-related co-morbidities. Surgical options include gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.
