When body weight increases, the lungs must deliver more oxygen to meet demand. However, the lungs do not expand proportionally with weight gain. Additionally, thickened abdominal fat can restrict respiratory function. Undergoing anesthesia during surgery becomes significantly riskier. For asthma patients who are obese, the complications are even more severe.
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is common among obese individuals. Elevated blood pressure can lead to stroke, kidney deterioration, and varying degrees of damage to organs like the heart. Therefore, overweight patients with high blood pressure must implement appropriate weight management plans.
Heart
As body weight increases, the heart must work harder to supply nutrients to all organs. The heavier the weight, the greater the burden on the heart. Consequently, obese individuals experience heart disease at a higher rate than the general population.
Atherosclerosis
Excess cholesterol and fats accumulating on arterial walls can narrow blood vessels or even cause them to rupture, leading to stroke or sudden heart attack. Studies show obese individuals have a significantly higher risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Liver
The liver is one of the body's most vital organs. Chronic alcohol abuse, diabetes, and obesity can all contribute to the development of fatty liver disease. If left unaddressed, this condition can lead to liver cell necrosis and eventually cirrhosis.
Diabetes
Diabetes is nearly universal among obese individuals. Studies indicate that 70-85% of diabetes cases stem from high-carbohydrate, high-calorie diets. In these cases, weight loss often improves the condition. Therefore, only by maintaining an ideal weight with the assistance of physicians and nutritionists can the risk of fatal complications be eliminated.
Pregnancy and Surgery
Obese pregnant women are prone to difficult or prolonged labor, which can compromise fetal health. Furthermore, severely obese individuals not only face greater difficulty conceiving but also experience higher maternal and fetal mortality rates. Additionally, excessive muscle tissue makes surgical procedures significantly more challenging.
Leading Cause of Malignant Tumors
Approximately 35% of these cases stem from poor dietary habits—excessive consumption of high-calorie, high-fat foods—which generates excessive free radicals, leading to cellular mutations into cancer cells.
Joints
Excess weight overloads skeletal structures, causing joint swelling and inflammation.
Other
Obesity's bulk demands greater physical exertion for routine tasks. Combined with slowed reactions and reduced agility, this increases accident risk.