ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Obesity affects more than 40 percent of American adults. It is defined as a body mass index of 30 or more and is a risk factor for a slew of diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, cancer, asthma, sleep apnea, arthritis, and more. Now, researchers are learning more about what causes this health hazard and how to potentially prevent it.
While lifestyle habits are a large part in the development, researchers are finding there may be more to the story.
Eyleen O’Rourke, PhD, Prof. of Genomics at University of Virginia explains, “It is true that environment, and that includes diet and exercise, are major factors. However, our genes also play an important role.”
University of Virginia scientists recently discovered 14 genes that can cause weight gain and three that can prevent it. They believe that these findings will one day lead to treatments that can target the genes and prevent obesity. But having the genes doesn’t mean you are doomed.
O’Rourke, PhD, says “The genes only make you more likely to develop the disease or less likely.”
A healthy diet and regular physical activity are still the best ways to prevent obesity. Experts say even small changes can add up. Replacing a daily sugary drink with water can cut 150 extra calories a day, which equals 10 pounds a year! And exercising 10 minutes three times a day can give you that 30 recommended minutes without seeming daunting. Limiting sit time is another strategy. If you work at a desk, set a reminder to get up every 30 minutes. Lastly, get enough sleep. Seven to eight hours a night reduces your risk of weight gain. With ways to fight obesity.
Studies show obesity also affects your wallet. Medical costs for people with obesity in the US are about 30 percent to 40 percent higher than those for people without obesity.
Contributors to this news report include: Julie Marks, Producer; Roque Correa, Editor and Videographer.
Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/health/body/obesity-statistics/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11209-weight-control-and-obesity
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-guidelines/why-sitting-too-much-is-bad-for-us/
https://www.forbes.com/health/body/obesity-statistics/
PREVENTING OBESITY BY TARGETING YOUR GENES
REPORT #3128
BACKGROUND: Obesity is a complex health condition characterized by an excess accumulation of body fat, often resulting in detrimental effects on overall health and well-being. It stems from a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors, where an imbalance between calorie intake and energy expenditure leads to the storage of excessive fat in the body. Ity is a significant global health concern, associated with an increased risk of various conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers like breast, ovarian, endometrial, liver, gallbladder, prostate, kidney and colon.
(Source: https://www.who.int/health-topics/obesity#tab=tab_2)
DIAGNOSING: The treatment of obesity involves a multifaceted approach that combines dietary modifications, increased physical activity, behavioral therapy, and, in some cases, pharmacotherapy or surgical interventions. Lifestyle interventions, such as adopting a balanced diet and incorporating regular exercise, form the cornerstone of obesity management. Behavioral therapy aims to address psychological factors contributing to overeating, helping individuals develop healthier habits. Medications such as Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave), Liraglutide (Saxenda), Orlistat (Alli, Xenical), Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia) and Semaglutide (Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy) or bariatric surgery like adjustable gastric banding, gastric bypass surgery or gastric sleeve may be considered in cases of severe obesity or when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient. Other treatments can include: endoscopic procedures (endoscopic sleep gastroplasty and intragastric balloon), hydrogels, vagal nerve blockade and gastric aspirate.
(Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obesity/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20375749)
NEW TECHNOLOGY: Advancements in technology are playing a crucial role in the prevention of obesity. Wearable devices, mobile apps, and smart technologies provide innovative tools for monitoring physical activity, nutrition, and overall health. These tools help individuals make informed choices about their lifestyle, encouraging healthier habits. Devices like Gymwatch or Polar chest straps function like personal trainers and not only offer valuable insights into exercises but also measure vital signs. Beyond physical activity, prioritizing a good night’s sleep is crucial in weight management. Sleep trackers, such as Sleep As Android, offer valuable information on different sleep phases, including REM, light, and deep sleep, promoting a more holistic understanding of one’s well-being. For those seeking a wearable solution, Fitbit Ionic, with its sleep tracking capabilities, becomes a valuable companion in fostering healthy sleep patterns, contributing to overall weight control.
(Source: https://medicalfuturist.com/71-ways-digital-health-technologies-help-fight-obesity/)
* For More Information, Contact: Joshua Barney
Jdb9a@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu
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