• Age: Metabolism tends to slow with age, making it easier to gain weight.
• Gender: Hormonal differences can influence fat distribution and metabolism.
• Body Weight: People with higher body mass may require more energy but may also struggle with activity levels and metabolic efficiency.
• Food Preferences: Cravings for high-fat, high-sugar foods contribute to increased energy intake.
• Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants can promote weight gain.
• Genetics/Hereditary Factors: Genetics can influence metabolism, appetite, and how fat is stored in the body.
• Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups may have a higher genetic predisposition to obesity or related conditions.
• Socio-Economic Status: Limited access to healthy foods, health services, or safe spaces for physical activity can increase risk.
• Psychological Factors: Stress, trauma, and mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression may affect eating behaviours and activity levels.

Carrying excess weight is associated with a number of serious health conditions, many of which are preventable or manageable through weight reduction and lifestyle changes. Common physical health risks include:

• Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity is a major risk factor for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
• Sleep Apnoea: Extra weight can obstruct airways during sleep, leading to poor rest and increased cardiovascular risk.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Excess fat can increase blood pressure, stressing the heart and arteries.
• Stroke: Obesity increases the risk of stroke through its effect on blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Coronary Artery Disease: Excess body fat contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries.
• Respiratory Problems: Extra weight can make breathing more difficult and reduce lung capacity.
• Gallbladder Disease: Higher body fat levels can lead to gallstones and gallbladder dysfunction.
• Osteoarthritis: Increased weight puts more strain on joints, especially knees and hips.
• Dyslipidaemia: Obesity often leads to abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
• Certain Cancers: Increased risk of cancers such as breast, bowel, kidney, and endometrial cancer.

Obesity can also have significant social and psychological effects, which may impact quality of life and overall wellbeing:

• Social Bias and Discrimination
• Low Self-Esteem
• Body Shape Dissatisfaction
• Eating Disorders
• Social Isolation
• Depression and Anxiety

Preventing excess weight gain is essential—not just for maintaining good health and wellbeing, but to reduce the risk of serious long-term complications. Fortunately, many health issues associated with obesity can be improved or even reversed through healthy lifestyle changes and modest weight loss.

If you or someone you know is concerned about weight, it’s important to seek support from a qualified health professional. A personalised, evidence-based approach can make a meaningful difference.