The negative effects of obesity are obvious; it causes people to lose self-esteem, to have difficulty moving around, and it can cause serious short-term health problems. What many people do not realize is the effect obesity has in the long term. Living with obesity can reduce your life expectancy significantly. Here is a startling fact: 300,000 people die each year from obesity-related health problems. Obese individuals have a 40 percent higher risk of dying prematurely than men and women of a normal body weight. Overall, obesity is the second most common cause of preventable death. The first? Smoking.

The health risks associated with obesity are well-known, but let’s discuss them anyway. Men and women who are obese have a statistically higher risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, certain types of cancer, arthritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, incontinence, infertility, irregular menstruation, and bone and joint problems.

One of the most dangerous health risks associated with obesity is diabetes. Diabetes is becoming increasingly common in obese children. These young children may not realize the long-term effects of diabetes until it is too late.

Of course, aside from health risks, it is important not to ignore the toll obesity takes on quality of life. Obese individuals have limited mobility and often experience early onset of arthritis and bone and joint issues. Many obese individuals suffer from depression and a lack of sex drive.

The good news is that the physical and psychological effects of obesity don’t have to be permanent. There are a variety of different options available for obese individuals who want to transform their lives, from diet and exercise programs to bariatric surgery. Make sure to talk to your physician before beginning an exercise or diet regimen. If you are interested in bariatric surgery, schedule a consultation with a weight loss surgeon in your area.

Find a gastric bypass center in Los Angeles or contact a Lap Band surgery center in Orange County.