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• Obesity is defined as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater.AHA: Obesity and Overweight It is usually caused by consuming more calories than the body is able to break down for energy.

  In January 2009, scientists announced that they had discovered an obesity virus which caused fat cells to multiply and expand.FOXNews: Obesity 'Virus' Spreads Like Common Cold, Scientists Say (January 26, 2009)

• Fast Facts

  1. Can be overweight without being obese
  2. Obese: BMI of 30+AHA: Obesity and Overweight
  3. Morbidly obese: BMI of 40+AHA: Obesity and Overweight
  4. Prevalence: 1 in 3 AmericansMayoClinic.com: Obesity
  5. Prevalence: 16.3 % of Americans under 18 (2006)CDC: Introduction
  6. State with lowest obesity rate: Colorado (2007)CDC: U.S. Obesity Trends 1985–2007
  7. 2005: 400 million obese people internationallyWHO: Obesity and Overweight
  8. Linked to 300,000 U.S. deaths per yearCleveland Clinic: Overview of Obesity
  9. Estimated medical cost: $75 million (2000)CDC: Economic Consequences
  10. Shedding 5 -10 % body weight has heath benefitsMedlinePlus: Obesity

• Obesity Virus

  While not the principal cause of obesity, Louisiana researchers have discovered a virus that they believe is involved in certain cases of obesity. The virus, known as AD-36, enters through the respiratory system and causes sore throats. It and then spreads systemically through the blood stream causing fat cells to expand and multiply. The virus is highly contagious, but rare, and can persist in the body for up to 3 months. Three times as many obese individuals as thin people tested positive for the virus in the study.FOXNews: Obesity 'Virus' Spreads Like Common Cold, Scientists Say (January 26, 2009)

• Treatment

  • Healthy diet
  • Exercise
  • Prescription weight loss medications
  • Weight loss surgery

• Possible Complications

  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Stroke
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Cancer
  • Sleep apnea

• Disclaimer

  The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about obesity, please consult your doctor.

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