Morbid obesity

Morbid Obesity

Morbid obesity (pronunciation: /ˈmɔːrbɪd oʊˈbiːsɪti/), also known as severe obesity or clinically severe obesity, is a condition characterized by an excessive amount of body fat that poses a serious threat to health. The term "morbid" refers to the potential for disease or death that is associated with this level of obesity.

Etymology

The term "morbid obesity" is derived from the Latin word "morbidus" meaning "diseased" or "sick", and the Latin word "obesitas" meaning "fatness". It is used to describe a state of obesity that is so severe it is likely to cause disease or death.

Definition

Morbid obesity is typically defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or being more than 100 pounds over the recommended weight for one's height and body type. It can also be defined as having a BMI of 35 or higher and experiencing obesity-related health conditions, such as Type 2 Diabetes or Hypertension.

Causes

The primary causes of morbid obesity include a combination of excessive food intake, lack of physical activity, and genetic susceptibility. Certain medical conditions, such as Hypothyroidism and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), can also contribute to the development of morbid obesity.

Treatment

Treatment for morbid obesity typically involves a combination of diet, exercise, behavior changes, and sometimes weight loss surgery. Medications may also be used to help control appetite and reduce weight. In severe cases, Bariatric Surgery may be recommended.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Morbid obesity
Wikipedia's article - Morbid obesity

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