Did you know that obesity affects over a billion people worldwide, and the World Health Organization classifies it as a chronic disease? In Saudi Arabia, statistics indicate that over 60% of adults suffer from overweight or obesity. This comprehensive guide provides you with everything you need to know about obesity — the real causes, health risks, diagnosis methods, and treatment options — based on the latest information from Mayo Clinic and the World Health Organization (WHO).
What is Obesity?
Obesity is a complex medical condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body, posing a risk to health. According to Mayo Clinic, obesity is not just an aesthetic issue — it’s a disease that increases the risk of developing many other diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver disease, sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer.
Obesity is diagnosed using Body Mass Index (BMI). According to the World Health Organization:
- Normal weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25 or higher
- Obesity: BMI 30 or higher
- Morbid obesity: BMI 40 or higher
Doctors also measure wrist circumference, an important indicator of visceral fat. The risk of health problems increases in men if their waist circumference exceeds 102 cm, and in women if it exceeds 89 cm (according to Mayo Clinic).
The Real Causes of Obesity
Obesity is not just “eating too much and moving too little” — it’s more complex. According to Mayo Clinic and the World Health Organization, several factors intersect:
1. Genetic Factors
Inherited genes affect the amount of fat the body stores and where it is distributed, the efficiency of converting food into energy, appetite regulation, and how calories are burned during exercise. Obesity tends to spread in families — not just because of genes, but because families share the same eating habits and activity levels.
2. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
- Unhealthy diet: Foods high in calories, fast food, sugary drinks, and lack of fruits and vegetables
- Liquid calories: Sugary drinks and juices contain high calories but do not make you feel full (according to Mayo Clinic)
- Lack of physical activity: Desk jobs, long hours in front of screens, and reliance on convenience
- Stress: Stress and anxiety increase cortisol production, which stimulates fat storage and increases appetite
3. Hormonal and Medical Factors
Certain medical conditions can cause weight gain, such as hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Additionally, some medications, such as antidepressants and corticosteroids, can lead to weight gain.
Health Risks of Obesity
Obesity increases the risk of developing many diseases (according to Mayo Clinic):
- Cardiovascular diseases: Obesity increases the risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Type 2 diabetes:Key risk factors for obesity include:
- Liver diseases: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
- Sleep Apnea: Fat around the neck obstructs breathing
- Joint pain: Excess weight puts pressure on knees and hips
- Certain cancers: Breast, colon, uterine, and esophageal cancers
Diagnostic Methods
To diagnose obesity, the doctor performs the following (according to Mayo Clinic):
- Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement — recommended at least once a year
- Waist circumference measurement — recommended at least once a year
- Blood tests to rule out related diseases (diabetes, cholesterol, liver and thyroid function)
- Review of medical and family history of weight-related diseases
- Assessment of eating patterns, physical activity, and stress levels
Treatment Options
The primary goal is to lose 5% to 10% of total body weight — this significantly improves obesity-related health issues (according to Mayo Clinic).
1. Lifestyle Modification
- Balanced, low-calorie healthy diet
- Regular physical activity (150 minutes of moderate activity per week)
- Changing eating behaviors (mindful eating, portion control)
- Adequate sleep and stress management — in collaboration with a nutritionist or behavioral therapist
2. Medication
Prescription medications for obesity (appetite suppressants, fat absorption inhibitors) under strict medical supervision, especially for those with a BMI of 27+ and health issues.
3. Surgical Procedures
For severe obesity (BMI 40+) or obesity with chronic diseases, bariatric surgeries (gastric sleeve, bypass) may be an effective option.
5 Practical Tips for Weight Management
- Start small: Don’t try to change everything at once. Replace a sugary drink with water and gradually increase your daily steps.
- Focus on food quality: Protein (lean meats, eggs, legumes), leafy greens, and fiber increase satiety and reduce sugar cravings.
- Sleep well: Lack of sleep disrupts hunger hormones (ghrelin and leptin). Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep daily.
- Reduce liquid calories: Replace soda and sweetened juices with water or unsweetened beverages.
- Don’t hesitate to seek medical help: Obesity is a chronic disease that requires follow-up with a family doctor or nutritionist.
Myth vs. Fact
❌ Myth: Obesity is just a lack of willpower and discipline.
✅ Fact: Obesity is a complex chronic disease influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors — according to Mayo Clinic and the World Health Organization.
❌ Myth: Extreme diets and intermittent fasting are the best solutions.
✅ Fact: Crash diets cause muscle and water loss, not fat loss, and often lead to rapid weight regain. Gradual, sustainable change is best.
❌ Myth: Obesity only affects adults.
✅ Fact: More than 390 million children and adolescents (5-19 years) are overweight, of which 160 million are obese (World Health Organization 2022).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can obesity be treated without surgery?
Yes. The first option is lifestyle modification. For moderate cases, medications can be added under medical supervision. Surgery is an option for severe cases (BMI 40+) or when there are health complications.
2. What is the difference between obesity and being overweight?
Being overweight (Overweight) = BMI 25-29.9. Obesity = BMI 30 or more. The difference is in the degree of fat and level of risk. Visceral fat around the abdomen is more dangerous than subcutaneous fat.
3. When should I consult a doctor?
If your BMI is 30+, or BMI 25+ with health problems (diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol), or if you are concerned about your weight. Consult your family doctor or an obesity specialist.
Sources: Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org), World Health Organization (who.int). Information verified in June 2026.
