Yes, Obesity is having too much body fat and is a serious health condition because it increases the risk of problems like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver disease, and some cancers.¹

No, Obesity is a lifelong condition where obesity medicines can help people lose weight.  However, when the medicines are stopped, body weight usually returns to the starting level or to what lifestyle habits can maintain.²

Weight loss is tough for some due to factors such as genes, hormones that boost hunger after dieting, slower metabolism (how the body processes food and energy), and habits. Chemicals released from the brain, like dopamine, increase cravings after weight loss^. and make it harder to maintain weight loss.³

No, body mass index (BMI) is not the only, nor the most accurate, way to measure obesity. While it is a commonly used tool based on height and weight, it fails to differentiate between fat and muscle mass or assess fat distribution. Better, more accurate methods include waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and body fat percentage. ⁴

Healthy weight loss is a gradual process of losing 1 to 2 pounds (0.5–1 kg) per week by eating a balanced diet, regular exercise, and behaviour changes, rather than extreme dieting. It focuses on long-term health improvements, such as eating whole foods, increasing activity, and managing stress. ⁵

Yes, being overweight is a major reason for joint pain. Extra body weight puts more pressure on joints like the knees and hips, which can wear them out faster. In fact, people who are obese are about 20 times more likely to need a knee replacement than those who are not overweight. ⁶

For an obese person, a minimum of 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (e.g., brisk walking, swimming, dancing) is advised to improve health and manage weight. For significant weight loss, it is suggested to progress to 200–300 minutes per week, including running and fitness classes.⁷

People often gain weight back after dieting because the body tries to go back to the weight it is used to. After losing weight, the body may burn calories more slowly and makes us feel hungrier, which makes it harder to keep the weight off. Making small, steady lifestyle changes and following healthy habits can help the body adjust gradually.⁸

Yes, stress can affect our weight. It increases a hormone that can make us feel hungrier and store more fat, especially around the belly. Managing stress with relaxation, healthy eating, and regular exercise can help control weight.⁹

Medical help for weight issues should be considered when excess weight starts affecting overall health or daily activities, or when BMI is 30 or higher, as this increases the risk of serious health problems. A doctor can assess overall health and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.¹⁰

Weight-loss medicines can help, but they work best when used along with a proper weight-management plan. Most of these medicines work by reducing hunger, helping feel full sooner, or both. Healthy eating, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes are important for good results.¹¹

No, obesity does not always lead to diabetes. However, people who are overweight are about 10 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, which is the most common type. Although type 2 diabetes can usually be managed well, excess weight greatly increases the risk.¹²