Obesity has long been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the medical community as a complex chronic disease, not merely a lifestyle issue or cosmetic concern. However, its consequences often progress silently, leading many to overlook the condition until severe complications arise.

According to Associate Professor, Doctor Tran Quang Nam, Head of Endocrinology Department, University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City, Asians tend to accumulate more visceral fat even with the same BMI as other ethnicities; therefore, diagnostic standards for obesity are stricter. A BMI of 25 or higher is classified as obese. Additionally, waist circumference is a crucial indicator: women should have a waistline under 80 cm, and men under 90 cm. Exceeding these thresholds signifies a risk of abdominal obesity, where fat has already enveloped internal organs.

Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat, which clings around the intestines, liver, and heart, functions as an endocrine organ, continuously secreting inflammatory cytokines. Fat accumulation in blood vessels promotes atherosclerosis, leading to the narrowing of coronary and cerebral arteries. A fatty liver experiences impaired function, resulting in metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hypertension. Obesity also contributes to an increased incidence of stroke in young people.

A significant amount of fat can also compress the pharyngeal region, causing sleep apnea. Patients often experience loud snoring, nighttime oxygen deprivation, leading to daytime fatigue, drowsiness, and an increased risk of sudden death. As the body becomes exhausted, individuals become more inactive, reducing energy expenditure while calorie intake remains constant. This cycle leads to continued fat accumulation and worsening health conditions.

Tests can help assess the risk of metabolic disorders caused by visceral fat accumulation. Photo: Quynh Tran

Obesity is also closely linked to mental health. According to Master, Doctor Pham Thi Minh Chau, from the Department of Psychiatry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Ho Chi Minh City, individuals with obesity face twice the normal risk of depression. Stress often leads many to seek "comfort food", especially sweets, inadvertently consuming large amounts of sugar. Social stigma and body image issues drive some to extreme measures like fasting or drinking vinegar, which are harmful to their stomach and overall health.

To control obesity, experts recommend persistent lifestyle changes rather than setting goals for rapid weight loss. A safe reduction rate is about one kg per week, as losing weight too quickly can lead to dehydration, muscle atrophy, and nutritional disorders.

For office workers, increasing daily activity is advised, such as walking more, standing up to stretch after every hour of work, and limiting high-calorie snacks. Experts suggest that even a little extra physical activity each day will allow the body to adapt gradually and build motivation for long-term maintenance. When facing difficulties or considering giving up, individuals should seek support from a doctor or psychologist.

Le Phuong