Obesity is one of the biggest health issues worldwide today. It is estimated that over fifty percent of all women are now considered overweight, and one third are considered obese.

These numbers are staggering when you consider the size of the population today.

While most women are more concerned with body image, there are several medical risks that can be directly related to obesity. These risks are greater in women who are severely overweight or obese.obesity

However, many diseases and medical conditions can be reversed or improved by losing weight. Consider the following risks and medical conditions that are commonly related directly to obesity [Obesity Effects].

  • Arthritis – Studies show that women who are obese will be four times more likely to develop osteoarthritis. In addition, these studies have shown the risk is higher in obese women than in obese men.
  • Breast Cancer – There are many effects of obesity on your risk to develop or survive breast cancer. It has been found that women who become obese after entering menopause will have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. In addition, obese women who develop breast cancer before menopause have a shorter survival rate and life expectancy.
  • Fertility – Women who are obese are known to have a higher rate of infertility. Your weight can have a direct impact on ovulation, pregnancy rate, effectiveness of fertility treatments, and pregnancy success rates. However, studies have shown that an improvement in fertility and pregnancy success can be found in women who lose weight.
  • Gallbladder Disease – Women who are obese will have a much higher risk of developing gallstones than women who are not obese. In most cases your chances for a gallbladder attack or stone will double if you become obese. However, this risk can be lowered by losing weight.
  • Cardiovascular Disease – One of the biggest risks associated with obesity is cardiovascular disease. For obese women over the age of 50, cardiovascular diseases should be a major concern. Cardiovascular disease is now the number one cause of death in women over fifty. This is especially true in obese women.

Reversing the Complications of Obesity

Fortunately, obesity is one risk factor you can control to eliminate your risk of developing these diseases. Unlike genetic disposition or environmental exposure to a specific contaminate, obesity can be reversed and all risks can be eliminated.

In recent test groups, results have shown that the risks for cancer and heart disease in women can reduce almost as fast as the pounds can disappear. However, women who lose weight and keep it off will continue to see a decrease in the risk of developing diseases or ailments.

The Greatest Risk of Obesity

The scariest of risk factor associated with obesity is death. In obese women between the age of 30 and 55 deaths related to medical complications can often be directly related to obesity.

It is estimated that all women who become obese, will increase their chance of dying, by fifty percent. For this reason, proper weight management is imperative.