Important Public Health Challenges of Hypertension and Obesity

Both hypertension and obesity, as important public health challenges that are increasing worldwide. Obesity is increasingly recognized as one of the most important risk factors for the development of hypertension. Excess body weight is the most important risk factor contributing to the overall burden of disease. Obesity and in particular central obesity have been consistently associated with hypertension and increased cardiovascular risk. Hypertension can be directly attributed to obesity.

People with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese. The term “obesity” is used to describe the health condition of anyone significantly above his or her ideal healthy weight. Don’t be discouraged by the term. It simply means you are 20% or more above your ideal weight. Being obese puts you at a higher risk for health problems such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and more.

Obesity Statistics

• Almost 13 million (16.9%) of U.S. children ages 2 to 19 are obese.
• Nearly one in three (31.8%) U.S. children (23.9 million) ages 2 to 19 are overweight or obese.
• More than one-third (about 35%) of U.S. adults are obese (more than 78 million adults).

Obesity is defined simply as too much body fat. Your body is made up of water, fat, protein, carbohydrate and various vitamins and minerals. If you have too much fat — especially around your waist — you're at higher risk for health problems, including high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and diabetes. Being obese can raise blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, lower "good" HDL cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is linked with lower heart disease and stroke risk, so low LDL tends to raise the risk. Increase blood pressure, Induce diabetes. In some people, diabetes makes other risk factors much worse. The danger of heart attack is especially high for these people. Obesity increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. But it harms more than just the heart and blood vessel system. It's also a major cause of gallstones, osteoarthritis and respiratory problems.

For a Healthier Weight

Everyone needs a goal and positive reasons to achieve that goal. Even losing a few pounds can provide you with cardiovascular benefits, so every step in the right direction is a step towards healthier living. Consider these reasons to work toward maintaining a healthy weight.

When you are in a healthier weight range:

• Your body more efficiently circulates blood.
• Your fluid levels are more easily managed.
• You are less likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers and sleep apnea.

Consult your doctor:

Every adult should have his or her BMI calculated at least once a year. Patients with a BMI of 30 or higher are considered obese and need treatment.