Obesity is a condition where your weight affects your health. It is a long-term (chronic) condition with many causes. It usually develops over time.
Talk to your doctor if your weight has a negative impact on your life.
There is separate advice if you are concerned about your child’s weight.
How to find out if you have obesity
Your doctor may ask if they can check:
- your weight and height, to calculate your body mass index (BMI)
- your waist circumference, if your BMI is less than 35kg per m2
- your waist to height ratio
- if you have any health problems that are linked to obesity
They may diagnose you with obesity if you have excess body fat and any health problems linked to obesity.
Causes of obesity
There is no single cause of obesity. But there are some risk factors.
Some of these may be outside your control. You can develop obesity even if you eat well and are active.
Treating obesity
Things you can do to manage obesity include:
- getting good quality sleep
- looking after your mental health
- healthy eating
- being active
- managing other health conditions you have
Managing obesity can improve your quality of life. It will also reduce your risk of weight-related health problems. It's not just about losing weight.
Your healthcare team may also offer you other treatments for obesity.
These can include:
- referrals to other healthcare professionals
- specialist weight management services
- weight management support programmes
- medicine
- surgery
Your doctor can work with you to find the best treatments that suit you and your life.
Content supplied by the NHS and adapted for Ireland by the HSE