Excess weight and obesity

Obesity is the state of being grossly overweight.

Overview

Obesity is the state of being grossly overweight. Many diseases such as type 2 diabetes are associated with obesity and cause damage to a number of organs over the long term. Regular exercise and a healthy diet promote weight loss.

Symptoms

Main symptoms

  • Overweight: BMI >25
  • Weight circumference is too big
  • Women >88 cm
  • Men >102 cm

The BMI (body mass index) is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in metres squared.

Complications

Causes and treatment

Causes

  • Excessive calorie intake (primarily because of unhealthy eating and drinking habits)
  • Lack of exercise
  • Inhibited sense of satiety (not feeling full)

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests
  • Measurement of weight, height, waist circumference and body fat
  • Blood test (e.g. measurement of blood sugar)
  • Ultrasound (primarily of liver)
  • Blood pressure measurement
Possible therapies
  • Nutritional advice
  • Operation (e.g. stomach reduction)
  • Treatment of complications (e.g. medication for high blood pressure)

What can I do myself?

  • Regular exercise
  • Healthy diet (plenty of vegetables, salad and fruit)

Get a personal Preventive Care Recommendation now.

When to see a doctor?

  • For help and support in losing weight
  • BMI of 30 or more
  • Before taking up sport if you’re obese
  • Overweight children

Further information

Schweizerische Adipositas-Stiftung SAPS (Swiss Obesity Foundation)
www.saps.ch

Synonyms

obesity, excess weight, overweight

Exclusion of liability

CSS offers no guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information. The information published is no substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.