Obesity and Chronic Disease: Why Managing Your Weight Could Save Your Life

Obesity: More Than a Risk Factor—It’s a Disease

In 2013, the American Medical Association (AMA) officially recognized obesity as a chronic disease—a decision that changed how the medical community approaches treatment. This shift highlights what healthcare providers have long known: obesity is not just about weight—it's a serious, progressive disease that impacts nearly every system in the body. And it's alarmingly common. According to the CDC, over 40% of American adults are now classified as obese.

But what makes obesity dangerous isn’t just the number on the scale—it’s the host of obesity-related diseases that often follow. Fortunately, many of these conditions are preventable—or even reversible—with the right intervention, including bariatric surgery and comprehensive weight management programs.

What Are Obesity-Related Diseases?

Obesity increases the risk of developing a wide range of chronic and life-threatening conditions, including:

• Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity is the leading cause of insulin resistance, which can result in high blood sugar and diabetes.
• Heart Disease: Extra fat tissue raises cholesterol levels, increases blood pressure, and puts added stress on the heart.
• Sleep Apnea: Excess fat around the neck and throat can obstruct airways, causing breathing interruptions during sleep.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Extra weight makes the heart work harder, increasing the risk of stroke and heart attack.
• Certain Cancers: Obesity is linked to a higher risk of developing cancers of the breast, colon, pancreas, uterus, and more.
• Joint Pain and Osteoarthritis: Carrying excess weight accelerates the wear and tear of weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
• Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Excess fat stored in the liver can lead to inflammation, scarring, and liver failure.

These “co-morbidities” can worsen each other over time, increasing the risk of premature death and reducing quality of life.

Why Bariatric Surgery Can Be a Life-Saving Treatment

For many patients, diet and exercise alone aren’t enough to achieve and maintain long-term weight loss. That’s where bariatric surgery becomes a game-changer. Studies have shown that bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for severe obesity—and its benefits extend far beyond weight loss:

• ‍Blood sugar levels often normalize within days of surgery for many patients with type 2 diabetes.
• ‍Blood pressure and cholesterol can drop significantly, reducing the need for medications.
• ‍Sleep apnea, joint pain, and liver inflammation commonly improve or resolve.

Most importantly, bariatric surgery significantly reduces the risk of death from obesity-related diseases. It’s not about vanity—it’s about survival.

A Whole-Body Approach to Weight Management

At BASS Medical Group, our bariatric specialists work closely with primary care providers (PCPs) and other experts in endocrinology, cardiology, orthopedics, and internal medicine to offer a multidisciplinary approach to obesity care.

Whether you're exploring weight loss surgery or need help managing conditions related to obesity, our team will develop a plan that's tailored to your needs, preferences, and health goals.

Take Control of Your Health—Today

Obesity may be a complex disease, but the good news is that it’s treatable. If you or a loved one is struggling with obesity or obesity-related health issues, don’t wait for symptoms to escalate. Schedule a consultation with our Bariatric Medicine team to learn more about your options.

Visit bassmedicalgroup.com to request an appointment or ask for more information.