Bangkok: Overweight and obesity have emerged as the primary causes of premature illness and death among the Thai population. This alarming trend has raised significant concerns among healthcare professionals, highlighting the urgent need for further research and intervention.
According to Thai News Agency, Professor Dr. Prakit Vathesatogkit, Chairman of the Foundation for a Smoke-Free Society, emphasized the findings of the 2022 Burden of Disease Survey report, which identified overweight and obesity as the leading contributors to illness, disability, and premature death in Thailand. He stressed the necessity of delving deeper into the diseases linked to these conditions, particularly their association with cancer, as awareness among the general public remains limited.
The relationship between obesity and diabetes is well-documented, with insulin resistance forcing the pancreas to exert more effort, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Obesity also places additional strain on the heart and increases blood pressure, as the heart must supply blood to a larger number of fat cells. Furthermore, severe obesity can restrict lung expansion due to fat accumulation around the chest, causing breathing difficulties, particularly during sleep, and potentially leading to heart disease.
Individuals with obesity and diabetes face an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other related complications. Arthritis is another concern, as excess weight imposes greater stress on bones and joints. Data from the National Cancer Institute of the United States indicates a heightened incidence of 13 types of cancer among obese individuals.
The underlying issue stems from the fact that increased fat in obese individuals is not merely a matter of added weight. Fat cells release substances that cause mild inflammation, leading to increased cell division and potential cancer development. Hormonal imbalances, especially in postmenopausal women, can further elevate cancer risk. Factors contributing to overweight and obesity include poor dietary habits, lack of exercise, chronic sleep deprivation, high stress levels, certain medications, and genetics.
To combat these issues, experts advocate for the principle of "consuming less than the body uses" to achieve weight loss. The widely adopted 80/20 principle suggests that 80% of weight loss should come from dietary control, with the remaining 20% from exercise. Effective weight management combines proper diet with increased physical activity. Moreover, the prevention of obesity from childhood is crucial, as recent reports indicate that 30% of Thai schoolchildren are classified as obese, posing significant public health and economic challenges for the future.