Obesity and cardiovascular disease

Heart disease and obesity are closely related. The risk of the former increases as obesity becomes further developed. Obesity can also lead to conditions such as hypertension and high cholesterol levels. About two out of three Americans are now considered to be overweight or obese. Worryingly, about fifteen percent of children and adolescents are also considered obese. This figure has risen by more than ten percent in recent decades.Causes and risks

There is plenty of evidence to indicate a link between the couch potato culture and the recent rise in obesity. Those who are overweight are putting themselves at increased risk of developing diseases such as diabetes, hypertension or stroke. The risk of developing other serious diseases is also increased as a result of obesity. This includes conditions like congestive heart failure, sleep apnea, gout, arthritis, breathing difficulties and gallbladder disease. Obese or overweight people also put themselves at risk of developing some types of cancer, like breast, colon or uterine cancer. Heart Disease and Obesity

There is no doubting the dangers to which one exposes oneself by becoming overweight. Heart disease is a common occurrence in those who are obese. Diseases such as heart attack, congestive failure, cardiac arrest, angina and arrhythmia are all common consequences of obesity. The more overweight you are, the higher the risk.

Hypertension, diabetes and high triglyceride levels are other potential consequences. If you are overweight, you will likely also suffer from high LDL cholesterol level. Inflammation of blood vessels can also occur as a result of obesity. These facts can indicate an increased exposure to the risks of heart disease.

In order to determine whether one should lose weight, it might be advisable to determine your body mass index and waist circumference, as well as reviewing the risk factors that surround you.

Body mass index is calculated by contrasting a person’s weight with ther height. Those with a BMI of more than 30 are considered to be obese. A BMI calculator can be used to work out ones BMI. For women, a waist circumference of more than 35 inches might increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. The target for men is to have a measurement below 40 inches. If your waist circumference is higher than these quoted figures, it might be advisable to consider treatment or try to lose some weight. Waists should be measured after breathing out.