What is 
besity?
Obesity is a complex, pro-inflammatory disease that affects individuals in different ways. Excess dysfunctional adipose (body "fat") can lead to metabolic and hormonal imbalances, physical strain on the body, and mental health challenges. The cumulative lifetime exposure to excess adiposity, plus it's location play a key role in increasing long-term health risks.
What are the risk factors?
Obesity has many causes that are complex and interconnected. These include genetics (main contributing factor*), early life experiences, changes in how genes work (epigenetics), the brain-gut connection, changes in gut bacteria, poor sleep, medication side effects, and high stress levels. While a minority of people have obesity due to rare genetic or medical conditions, for most, environmental factors—like lifestyle, social influences, and economic challenges—play a major role in weight gain and unhealthy fat storage over time.
How is it diagnosed?
1. Excess body Fat?
The first step in such a diagnosis is confirming excess body fat, which can be achieved via one of the following three criteria
At least one measurement of body size and BMI
At least two measurements of body size, regardless of BMI
Direct body fat mesurement, such as a DEXA Scan
2. Measurements of body size
The commission defines three measurements of body size that can be used to confirm excess body fat:
Waist circumference
>102 cm for men*
>88 cm for women*
Waist-to-hip-ration
>0.90 for men*
>0.85 for women*
Waist-to-height ration
>0.50 for all*
Excess body fat can pragmatically be assumed if BMI is > 40 kg/m2
What are the different treatment options?
Image Taken from - Rubino, Francesco, et al. "Definition and diagnostic criteria of clinical obesity." The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology (2025).
Am I suitable for Obesity-Modifying Medical therapy?
Living with a BMI ≥ 30, or BMI ≥ 27 and at least one health condition which should improve with a reduction in adipose levels.
Am I suitable for Bariatric Metabolic Surgery?
Living with a BMI ≥ 35, or BMI ≥ 30 and at least one health condition which should improve with a reduction in adipose levels.
Medical and Surgical Obesity Therapies
There are several different bariatric surgery procedures, but the two general ways in which they help with solid food portion reduction include:
- Limiting the amount of solid food you can eat in one sitting.
- Limiting the number of calories and nutrients your body can absorb per meal
Patients must be psychologically prepared to undergo surgical treatment because following post-surgical management advice is critical. They must also be ready to commit to engaging in a healthier lifestyle, follow strict nutritional advice including life-long nutrient supplementation as advised.
