More than two-thirds of women in the United States—and an alarming number in Caribbean communities—are living with overweight or obesity. These conditions are not just about how you look or your weight on a scale—they are linked to serious health risks, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Understanding what obesity is and how it affects the body is the first step in preventing it.
What is Obesity?
Obesity is a chronic condition defined by an excess of body fat. The most common way to screen for it is the Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight, while 30 or more is considered obese. But BMI is only part of the picture. Waist circumference is also important—women with a waist size over 35 inches are at increased risk of health complications.
Why Obesity Matters
Obesity is not a cosmetic issue; it is a serious risk factor for multiple chronic diseases, including:
- Heart disease, the leading cause of death among women globally
- Type 2 diabetes, which is strongly linked to excess weight and insulin resistance
- 13 types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, uterine, and colon cancer
- Sleep apnea, due to excess fat around the airway
- Pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and preeclampsia
- Stroke, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol
More Than Diet and Exercise
Obesity is a complex, multifactorial disease. While eating habits and physical activity are essential, factors like hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause), genetics, trauma, certain medications, poor sleep, and even the safety of your neighborhood can all influence body weight over time.
Taking the First Step
The good news is that even a modest weight loss—just 5 to 10% of your body weight—can significantly reduce your risk of many chronic conditions. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, losing just 10 to 20 pounds can help lower your blood pressure, regulate your blood sugar, and improve your energy levels. Supportive healthcare providers, small consistent lifestyle changes, and community encouragement can lead to lasting results.
When Should I Talk to a Doctor or Nurse About my Weight?
If you are worried about your weight, or if you have overweight or obesity, talk to your doctor or nurse. Your weight can raise your risk for many health problems and make it harder to get pregnant. Your doctor or nurse may suggest healthy eating changes and more physical activity to help you reach a healthy weight.
Conclusion
Obesity is not a moral failing—it is a public health issue. Every woman deserves access to accurate information, culturally sensitive care, and non-judgmental support.
If you’re concerned about your weight, or just want to understand your body better, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether you’re concerned about your weight or simply want to take preventive steps, if you don’t have access to a medical provider, there are medical experts who can help. Longevity medicine and personalized health practitioners at Skin30.co and Skin Longevity Clinic, along with trusted health clinics in the metropolitan area, are ready to guide you toward a healthier, empowered life
Dr. Kesler Dalmacy
Disclaimer:
No blog articles can replace the expertise of a licensed physician. This open letter/article in this website/DrDalmacy.com blog platform is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. This blog is not intended as medical advice. Please make certain that you consult your doctor or a qualified clinician or medical professional before making any decisions affecting your health, particularly if you have any symptoms that require treatment. Neither Dr. Kesler Dalmacy, nor DrDalmacy.com accept liability should you choose to self-prescribe or treat yourself..