The risks of being severely obese

If you are morbidly obese, you have major risks to your

• health
• psychological and social well being
• day to day living

Health risks

• diabetes
• joint problems
• high blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• cancer
• gallbladder problems
• breathing difficulties
• coronary artery disease

Important

If you already have some diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease, they can get worse. Plus, the more weight you gain, the more risk you have. As a result, your life expectancy is shorter. You also may be less able to do things to help your health improve. Exercise is important to good health. But severe obesity makes you less mobile. It is hard to exercise or take part in sports. Severe obesity can also affect fertility. That means you are less likely to become pregnant. On the other hand, if you do become pregnant, you have more risk of problems during pregnancy and childbirth.

Risks to your psychological and social well being People with a weight problem often have a negative self-image. Their environment can make this worse. Obese children, for instance, may be teased at school and have few friends. You may find it hard to buy clothes that look good. Bus or train seats, telephone booths and cars may be too small. You are also likely to be left out of social functions that require exercise People with severe obesity often find themselves socially isolated.

Risks in day to day living

Even normal tasks become harder when you are severely obese. You tend to tire more quickly. You may also have breathing problems. Not being able to move as well makes it hard for some people to maintain personal hygiene.