Obesity is a huge problem for both men and women. The Heart and Stroke Foundation reports that in the past 30 years, obesity rates in Canada have doubled and, in some age groups, even tripled. According to Statistics Canada, 29 per cent of Canadian women are overweight and 23 per cent are obese.
“Obesity is a common condition that we see in the population today,” says Dr. Tasha Bienert, a family physician and HealthChoicesFirst.com partner. “It's a body mass index of greater than 30, and this includes excess fat that will increase your risk of health concerns.”
You can determine your body mass index by using a BMI calculator, which is often used to measure obesity. If you have an elevated body mass index you're at risk of a variety of medical conditions, including:
*Cardiovascular disease
*Diabetes
*Metabolic syndrome
*A variety of cancers
*Sleep apnea, which is a significant medical concern
*Osteoarthritis of the joints of the lower body
Obese women also face a greater risk of infertility, certain cancers, menstrual irregularities, ovarian cysts and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
“If you think that you may have a body mass index that's elevated it is important to speak with your family physician,” says Dr. Bienert. “There are a few reasons for this: one may be a balance between calories going in and expenditure of what you're doing with your fitness, and expenditure of calories.
“There are also endocrine disorders that can be involved with obesity, such as hypothyroidism
and these can be tested for with certain blood tests,” says Dr. Bienert. “In addition, there is psychiatric illness that can be associated with obesity.”
Are you at a healthy weight? If you feel that you have an elevated body mass index or your weight is above normal, it's important speak with your family physician.