New Delhi: Obesity is largely genetic and associated with lifestyle choices – turns out, this is partially true as even age has a role to play. Surprising as it is, it is true that the odds of getting obese are higher at a certain age and according to a study, this is likely to get worse with every passing decade of your life until one reaches a certain age. A study has found that the rates of obesity among adults had come to a standstill in 2019, and have not dipped since then. It was found that 80% of men in England aged 55 to 64 years are either obese now or overweight. Upon comparing, it was also found that one-third of men aged 16 to 24 years were in the same category.
Obesity is associated with the risk of several health problems that are potentially fatal. From cancer to diabetes to high cholesterol to hypertension, obesity is associated with all. Extra fat around the waistline can raise the risk of up to 30 types of cancers. The new study, published in 2022, also found that this stems from lockdowns that were imposed during the pandemic. And talk of the age when obesity is a possibility, researchers noted that the prevalence is high in men aged 30+. Three-quarters of these fall under the 35-44 years category. This further spikes in men aged 45-54 years to 73%. By 75, men are likely to carry an unsafe level of extra fat.
The data surveyed 8000 adults aged 16 and above and was based on the Health Survey for England. Waistline was also higher in women with over 69% aged 55 to 64 years falling under the obese, overweight category. Weight gain in women is likely to increase from 65 to 74 years. In men, the rates are likely to drop when they are 75. 38% of women aged 16 to 24 years are in this category and it can further rise to 57% aged 35 to 44 years.
Researchers also noted that obesity is one of the biggest health threats. It takes a toll on the organ system and has a major impact on life expectancy as well. Obesity can increase the risk of heart disease, type-2 diabetes, cancer, stroke, and mental health disorders as well which may take a toll on the quality of life and overall health. Experts say that this can support overweight people or obese people trying to reach a healthy BMI threshold.
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