International Obesity Day is globally celebrated on March 4th each year starting from 2020, having previously been celebrated on October 11th each year. The date was changed by the World Obesity Federation to unify the global celebration and to highlight the need to reduce obesity. The aim of International Obesity Day is to promote practical solutions to end the global obesity crisis and to advance global efforts to prevent and treat obesity. The first International Obesity Day was held in 2015.
What are the risks of obesity for humans and how can we reduce it? Dr. Hossam Alam, a general surgeon, indicates that obesity is defined as excess weight according to the Body Mass Index (BMI). This is calculated based on the patient's weight and height. If the BMI exceeds 40, it is classified as morbid obesity; if it is over 35, it is considered general obesity; and if it exceeds 30, the patient may experience issues such as hypertension, diabetes, heart problems, and difficulty breathing. He states, "The normal condition is when the BMI is below 25, and when it is between 25 and 30, we have a predisposition to obesity." Therefore, Dr. Alam recommends eating healthy, avoiding sugars and saturated fats, and engaging in daily or at least weekly physical activity for at least half an hour a day.
In an interview with "Wardna," Dr. Alam emphasizes, "Obesity is a disease, according to the international classification of obesity conferences, and it is often accompanied by diabetes and lipid disorders." He warns that the risks of obesity for individuals are significant, potentially leading to diseases such as diabetes and heart problems, as well as issues with the heart muscle, which in turn affects respiratory issues and pain in the body's joints (such as the knees, hips, and shoulders).
Which is more dangerous: obesity from childhood or obesity that occurs with age? Dr. Alam confirms that "obesity is dangerous in both cases, whether it accompanies a person from childhood or appears with age. However, childhood obesity is particularly dangerous. We used to only acknowledge bariatric surgery for older adults, but now we are also performing weight loss operations for children. Previously, it was viewed as a growth-related issue, but it has been found that growth issues in children are often associated with obesity." He continues: "If a child suffers from morbid obesity, there is a significant impact on cortisol levels and all hormones. This includes considerations for girls regarding female and male hormones, bone issues, and the impact of obesity on mental development." Dr. Alam states, "We cannot forget that obesity can cause diabetes in children at a young age. Therefore, we must address the issue of obesity as quickly as possible. As for obesity that occurs with age, it causes heart diseases, diabetes, and respiratory issues."
He adds, "The Ministry of Health used to cover bariatric surgery costs. However, now the ministry is facing significant financial problems. Yet, they still assist as much as possible, whether through awareness campaigns about obesity and its issues or through conferences organized by the ministry and the doctors' syndicate."
Women are more prone to bullying, especially after childbirth. Nutritionist Fida Bashoati highlights that "women are the most targeted for bullying due to their excess weight, which obviously harms the girl or the pregnant woman, especially after childbirth. It’s known that she experiences both psychological and physical pressures, along with the burdens of raising a newborn, among other things. Therefore, we must acknowledge that a woman can experience a period of postpartum depression."
Bashoati emphasizes that "breastfeeding can help with weight loss if a proper healthy diet is followed, not by greatly reducing calorie intake, but by regulating meals and thus reducing excess weight." She stresses that "if the diet is given incorrectly, it will decrease the amount of milk she can provide for her baby. All she needs to do is drink water, exercise, and adopt a healthy and proper diet."
