Obesity can negatively affect both physical and mental well-being. Excess weight often leads to secondary health problems, as well as issues such as stress and depression. When a person’s weight gain goes beyond standard obesity (Body Mass Index BMI of 30–40) and reaches a BMI over 40, it is defined as morbid obesity.
Morbid obesity poses a significant risk to a person’s overall health, including a higher chance of life-threatening complications. Individuals in a patient’s close circle can play a major role by providing the support needed to ensure prompt treatment.
Causes of Morbid Obesity
A variety of factors can lead to morbid obesity, including:
- Psychological Factors
Emotional eating or overeating triggered by conditions such as stress, depression, or anxiety - Genetic Susceptibility
Genetic predisposition to gain weight more readily - Sedentary Lifestyle
Lack of daily physical activity - Unhealthy Diet
Frequent consumption of fast food or high-calorie meals - Poor Habits
Various habits (e.g., late-night snacking, sugary beverages) that contribute to weight gain
Symptoms of Morbid Obesity
The primary indicator of morbid obesity is a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40. To calculate BMI, square your height in meters and divide your weight (in kilograms) by that square. A result of ≥ 40 is classified as morbid obesity. Additional signs or co-occurring issues can include:
- Depression
Dissatisfaction with body image, social withdrawal, anxiety, and other psychological symptoms - Extreme Fatigue
Difficulty performing daily tasks and lack of energy
Health Conditions Associated with Morbid Obesity
Morbid obesity can increase the likelihood of various comorbidities:
- Type 2 Diabetes
Often related to insulin resistance, which tends to increase with weight gain - Heart Disease
Poor diet and excess weight strain the cardiovascular system - Joint Problems
Excessive body weight puts stress on bones and joints - Hypertension, Shortness of Breath, and Mobility Issues
Common due to the added physical burden on the body - Metabolic Syndrome
A cluster of abnormalities including elevated blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure
Diagnosing Morbid Obesity
Diagnosis starts with calculating a patient’s BMI:
- BMI ≥ 40: automatically classified as morbid obesity
- BMI ≥ 35 with additional comorbid conditions: can also be diagnosed as morbid obesity
Further assessment may involve comprehensive health exams and specific measurements:
- Waist Circumference
- Women: 80+ cm indicates risk; 88+ cm indicates high risk
- Men: 94+ cm indicates risk; 102+ cm indicates high risk
Treatment Methods for Morbid Obesity
Diet and Exercise
The first step typically involves a diet and exercise plan based on the patient’s needs. A nutritionist or dietitian creates a meal plan emphasizing healthier eating and calorie restriction, while an exercise program helps burn excess calories. Psychological support may also be necessary if emotional or stress-related eating patterns are identified.
Surgery
If conservative measures fail, or if the patient has obesity-related illnesses (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), bariatric surgery may be considered. Common surgical options include:
- Sleeve Gastrectomy (Mide Küçültme Ameliyatı)
A large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-shaped pouch. - Gastric Balloon (less common for morbid obesity, often used to help extremely overweight patients reduce weight to a safer level for surgery)
- Gastric Bypass
Reduces stomach size and bypasses a portion of the small intestine, significantly decreasing nutrient absorption. - Duodenal Switch
A complex procedure involving partial stomach removal and intestinal rerouting. - Adjustable Gastric Band
Places a band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a smaller pouch for food intake.
Life After Morbid Obesity Surgery
Recovery often includes psychological support and regular medical follow-ups. Nutritional supplementation is commonly required because surgical methods may reduce nutrient absorption. Long-term commitment to healthy eating and exercise is essential to sustain weight loss.
Diet and Exercise Tips
A morbid obesity diet must be tailored to the individual. General advice includes:
- Balanced Meals: Ensure adequate intake of different food groups in proper amounts.
- Reduced Portions: Eat smaller and more frequent meals; limit high-fat and sugary foods.
- Healthier Cooking Methods: Steaming or boiling rather than frying.
- Limit Processed Foods: Emphasize whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Stay Hydrated: Aim for at least 2 liters of water per day.
- Regular Exercise: Incorporate physical activities and make them part of a daily routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can someone with morbid obesity lose weight?
- Start with diet and exercise. If these are not sufficient, surgical options like sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass may be considered.
2. What is the cutoff for morbid obesity?
- A BMI of 40+. However, patients with a BMI ≥ 35 and additional health problems may also qualify.
3. How much does morbid obesity surgery cost?
- Costs vary based on factors like the hospital, surgeon, and clinic.
4. Will public insurance cover morbid obesity surgery?
- In many cases, public health systems (like SGK in Turkey) may cover some or all of the expenses, depending on specific criteria.
