Severe Obesity

Severe obesity is a chronic medical condition where the body accumulates enormous amounts of fat, placing the person at a high risk for severe health problems. It is typically described as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or above or a BMI of 35 or above with obesity-related illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension or sleep apnoea. Severe obesity can develop at any age and is usually the result of a combination of genetic, environmental, behavioural, and metabolic influences.

People with extreme obesity may suffer from decreased mobility, joint discomfort, breathing issues, tiredness, and a degraded quality of life. It has also been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, fatty liver disease, certain malignancies, and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Daily tasks may become tough and impair your personal, social, and professional well-being.

The management of severe obesity is best approached in a comprehensive and individualised manner. Treatment options include medically supervised weight-loss programmes, dietary counselling, regular physical activity, behavioural therapy, prescription drugs, and bariatric surgery where appropriate. Long-term lifestyle modifications and early intervention are fundamental for effective and sustainable weight management and for minimising health risks linked to obesity. If you are living with extreme obesity, the right medical care and assistance can help you improve your overall health, move better, and have a better quality of life.