Everything you need to know about obesity

It’s a loaded word, and one often misused or misunderstood by the media and public alike, but obesity – a term used to describe someone with excess body fat that increases their risk of developing other health conditions – is an issue affecting more Australians each year. 

How do you know if you are obese?

While it isn’t a perfect measure, in Australia we use the BMI (body mass index) to categorise people as underweight, healthy weight range, overweight or obese. 

This is calculated using a person’s height and weight, and a person is considered obese if their BMI is 30 or above. If you know your height and weight, you can check your BMI yourself using the Heart Foundation calculator online.

67 per cent of Australian adults are overweight or obese, with 31 per cent classified as obese according to the BMI. 

The Australian Government Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), says a better indicator of a person’s risk factors for issues such as cardiovascular risk and type 2 diabetes is waist circumference. 

“A waist circumference above 80 cm for women and above 94 cm for men is associated with an increased risk of chronic conditions. A waist circumference above 88 cm for women and above 102 cm for men is associated with a substantially increased risk of chronic conditions (WHO 2000).”

What impacts a person’s weight?

While the old adage of ‘calories in, calories out’ was once thought to be an accurate depiction of how and why some people carried more weight than others, it’s long been proven to be much more complex than any equation. 

Genetic factors, schools, workplaces, homes and neighbourhoods, the media, availability of convenience foods, and portion sizes can all influence a person’s body weight.

“Whilst there are many environmental factors that predispose to obesity we know that there is also a large genetic component that cannot be overlooked,” says Dr Thompson. 

Why is obesity an issue?

“Obesity is a risk factor for many conditions and complications,” explains Dr Andrew Thompson, Medical Director at Instant Scripts. 

“It is important to understand what it means for your body if you’re carrying extra weight. Obesity increases your risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, liver dysfunction and sleep apnoea amongst others. These conditions can all increase your risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious complications.”

Barriers to accessing healthcare 

The whole concept of obesity is one shrouded in shame – with many individuals having negative experiences within the medical system that prevent them from accessing the kind of healthcare they deserve. 

“Traditionally there has been a stigma around obesity which has led many Australians to avoid seeking medical advice,” says Dr Thompson.

“The culture around the management of obesity is thankfully changing for the better in Australia. I would be encouraging anyone who is encountering barriers to accessing medical care to seek out a doctor who specialises in weight management, however, a majority of GP’s will be happy to assist you. It is important to be open and upfront about your concerns and your goals.”

How is obesity treated?

Concentrating on holistic nutrition and exercise is an excellent way to combat some of the lifestyle risks associated with obesity. Dr Thompson explains there have also been big advances in the medical treatment of obesity, as well as multiple ways in which people can work with their doctors to achieve specific health goals. 

Bek Day is a writer and journalist with over 15 years of experience in the health and lifestyle space.