Health Risks Associated with Obesity in Men
As living standards improve and lifestyles change, more men are joining the ranks of those classified as overweight. Understanding the health risks associated with obesity is crucial for taking preventive measures. Below, we explore the significant health issues that obese men may face.
1. Diabetes
Obesity has a strong correlation with diabetes. Research conducted across 14 provinces in China revealed that diabetes incidence in the general population is around 0.26%, whereas overweight individuals experience a staggering 2.82% incidence. This demonstrates that obesity can increase the likelihood of developing diabetes by over ten times. Excessive food intake leads to an overproduction of insulin, causing high insulin levels in the bloodstream. With insulin resistance developing in obese individuals, the pancreas is forced to work harder, which can ultimately lead to pancreatic dysfunction and diabetes. Furthermore, obesity is often associated with hyperlipidemia, exacerbating glucose metabolism disorders and increasing diabetes risk.
2. Hypertension
Obesity significantly raises the risk of hypertension. A study focusing on middle-aged and elderly populations found that individuals with a body mass index (BMI) under 20 had a hypertension incidence of 7.55%. In contrast, those with a BMI of 24-26 had a hypertension rate of 20.26%, which jumped to 36.89% in individuals with a BMI over 28. The increase in fatty tissue requires a higher blood volume and cardiac output, leading to prolonged heart strain and left ventricular hypertrophy. Additionally, insulin resistance in obese individuals can promote sodium retention, further escalating blood pressure. The increased activity of the adrenal cortex in such individuals may also elevate blood pressure, highlighting obesity as a major risk factor for hypertension.
3. Atherosclerosis and Coronary Heart Disease
Atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease are prevalent among obese individuals. Data indicates that individuals with a BMI under 20 have a coronary heart disease incidence of 4.72%, while those with a BMI above 28 have a rate of 16.51%. Obesity often leads to high triglyceride levels, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. Factors such as excess body weight, increased surface area, and heightened fatty tissue can lead to ischemia. Inactivity among obese individuals further hampers collateral circulation, all of which can contribute to atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
4. Respiratory Function Deficiency
The clinical term for this condition is obesity hypoventilation syndrome, also known as hypoventilation syndrome. Severe obesity can severely restrict respiratory activities. Excess fat in the chest and abdominal walls limits breathing, resulting in lower tidal volume and reduced pulmonary function. This can lead to increased levels of carbon dioxide and decreased arterial blood oxygen saturation, potentially causing cyanosis. Long-term oxygen deprivation may lead to secondary polycythemia, increased blood viscosity, and heightened circulatory resistance, placing additional strain on the heart and potentially causing pulmonary hypertension.
5. Fatty Liver Disease
Obesity can induce hepatic steatosis, leading to liver enlargement. Due to a diet high in carbohydrates and fats and the presence of hyperinsulinemia, obese individuals may synthesize triglycerides at a rate that exceeds the liver's ability to transport them out. This can result in the accumulation of triglycerides within the liver, culminating in fatty liver disease.
6. Biliary Disorders
The incidence of cholecystitis and cholelithiasis increases with obesity. The formation of endogenous cholesterol in the liver, along with other tissues, rises with obesity. The normal ratio of bile salts and lecithin to cholesterol in bile is 11:1; when cholesterol levels rise, it can crystallize and precipitate, leading to gallstone formation. Gallstones may directly irritate the gallbladder mucosa, potentially causing secondary bacterial infections and inflammation.
7. Other Health Issues
Obesity can lead to various skin and joint problems. Common issues include fine, light red stretch marks on the outer thighs, inner thighs, and upper abdomen. Skin folds may experience friction, resulting in dermatitis or fungal infections. Prolonged weight strain can cause back pain and joint deterioration.
In summary, the increasing prevalence of obesity among men is associated with numerous health risks. By understanding these risks, individuals can take proactive steps to improve their health and well-being.