Obesity is a major health concern worldwide, as it is a major risk factor for a number of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that in 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight, and of those, over 650 million were obese. The prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically in recent decades, and it is now a global epidemic.
Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Extreme obesity, also known as morbid obesity, is defined as having a BMI of 40 or higher. Both obesity and extreme obesity are associated with significant health risks and can significantly reduce life expectancy.
There are many factors that contribute to the rise of obesity and extreme obesity, including changes in diet, physical inactivity, and environmental and societal factors. In many countries, there has been a shift towards more processed, high-calorie, and nutrient-poor foods, which are often less expensive and more readily available than healthier options. In addition, there has been a decline in physical activity, due in part to the increasing sedentary nature of many jobs and the widespread use of technology and transportation.
To address the obesity epidemic, it is important to implement population-level interventions that promote healthy behaviors, such as increasing access to healthy foods and promoting physical activity. It is also important for individuals to take responsibility for their own health and make lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, to prevent obesity and related health problems.
