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How obesity affects your health

Understanding the connection between obesity and health risks is an important first step towards improving your wellbeing and feeling more confident in your body. 

What health risks come with being overweight? 

Living with obesity can impact more than how you look or feel day to day. It can affect your energy levels, mood, and long-term health. You may also have other health conditions related to your weight, known as comorbidities. On this page, you’ll find an overview of the most common conditions linked to obesity so you can explore the topics that matter most to you.

What is obesity?

Obesity means carrying excess body fat in a way that can affect your health and wellbeing. It’s usually measured using body mass index (BMI). A BMI over 30 is classed as obese, while 25-29.9 is considered overweight.1 

These numbers are just a guide. Everyone’s body is different and factors like age, muscle mass, and genetics all play a role, so BMI is only one part of understanding your overall health.2

Learn more about BMI and use our BMI calculator

What are comorbidities?

A comorbidity is a health condition that occurs alongside another. In people living with obesity, this can include: 

Not everyone with obesity will experience these issues, but understanding the connections can help you take positive steps towards prevention and better long-term health. 

Thinking about your next step?

If you’re ready to explore ways to manage your weight, support is available. Minimally invasive procedures can work with your body to help you reach your goals, including: 

A specialist can help you understand which option may be right for you. 

Find a doctor near you

References

  1. Jin X, et al. Pathophysiology of obesity and its associated diseases. Acta Pharm Sin B. 2023;13(6):2403–24.
  2. Zierle-Ghosh A, Jan A. Physiology, Body Mass Index. 2023 In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (Fl): StatPearls Publishing, [cited 2026 July]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535456/
  3. Lim Y, Haq N, Boster J. Obesity and Comorbid Conditions. 2021– In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (Fl): StatPearls Publishing, [cited 2026 July]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574535/.

 

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