Obesity- Severe Risk With COVID-19

The World Health Organization has declared the COVID-19 outbreak to be an international public health emergency.  People with obesity-related conditions are at risk and can develop more severe symptoms with COVID-19.

In general, there are many health risks associated with morbid obesity.  Overweight is defined as a BMI of 25 or higher and obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 or higher.  Most people with obesity have other underlying conditions such as: Type 2 Diabetes, Hypertension, Sleep Apnea, Heart Disease, Liver and Gallbladder disease, Respiratory problems and difficulty breathing with small amounts of exertion and walking.  These conditions also make it harder for a person’s body to fight infection.

If you are overweight, losing weight may prevent or delay the onset of these conditions.  Losing weight and staying active will help control your blood sugar levels and keep your body strong.  Staying active is important while social distancing.  There are many online exercise programs and walking in your neighborhood is a great way to stay active.  Did you know that just taking a walk for 20 minutes a day can decrease your chances of developing underlying conditions with obesity?

More than 100 million Americans are at a higher risk of serious illness if they get COVID-19.  At Trinity Bariatric Institute, we want to keep you safe, educated and above all, healthy.  If you are looking to lose weight, call us today.  We are still open and caring for patients that are ready to lose weight for good and make a life change.

 

 

Source Information:

www.worldobesity.org

www.webmd.com

www.cdc.gov