Recently, the American Medical Association declared that obesity is a disease. However, the term obesity can be hard to define and to decipher. The condition of being obese is not caused by one particular thing, and its causes can vary based on the patient.
Lifestyle factors, genetics, hormones and environmental factors all play a role in whether or not a person in San Bernardino County becomes obese.
Montclair residents who are interested in more information about the fact that obesity is now considered a disease should set up an appointment with their general surgeon in order to understand their own physician’s take on this announcement and determine if any treatment options may be necessary for their own weight loss journey.
Why is Obesity Now Considered a Disease?
The decision was made recently at the annual American Medical Association meeting that was held in Chicago. Delegates at the meeting determined that it was in fact a disease after reviewing a study that was performed on the subject.
The hope is that now that it is considered a disease by this respectable and prestigious medical organization, that awareness will be raised about the topic and that more insurers will cover treatments to help patients who are obese. The group hopes that more physicians will pay attention to the importance of this condition and its role in society today.
What Causes a Person to Become Obese?
A person may be obese for a variety of reasons, however, most of the time it is the result of inactivity and eating too much. In addition to leading a lethargic lifestyle, patients may have hormone regulation issues that impact the way that they metabolize a meal. They may also be fighting a losing battle against their own genetics, which predispose them to higher weight gain and increased body fat levels.
How Can Obesity be Treated?
Each individual person who is obese needs to be treated based on their own condition and the cause of their obesity. While portion control and exercise may help some people lose weight, others may have to resort to surgery or more intensive diet plans in order to lose the weight that they need. Obese individuals should find an expert in general surgery who can help them get the treatment they need and get on a path to living a healthier, more active life.
In many ways, obesity is a broad term that is not easy to define. A person who is considered obese should still work with their general surgeon in order to see about the best ways to treat their condition. What works for some patients may not work for others, given the complexity associated with this disease and the fact that it impacts so many people in many different ways.
Obesity is a prevalent issue in today’s society, and this announcement helps to raise awareness about this disease. However, most patients will find that personalized treatment that truly addresses their needs and wants is still the best course of action.
