Is Obesity a Disease? Obesity Is Being Recognized as a Disease.

Michelle, a 42-year-old mother of two, has lived with overweight or obesity her entire life. She recalls how her parents’ attitude towards her eating habits shifted during her early school years, leading to issues with body image and dieting. Obesity is a common medical condition, affecting 4 out of 10 women in the U.S. and even more so among Black women. Hormones, genetics, and environmental factors play a role in obesity-related health risks. Treatment for obesity involves more than just diet and exercise, with medications and surgery now recommended in combination with lifestyle changes. Michelle’s struggle with weight loss led her to try medication, which has proven effective in losing 25 pounds. However, access barriers to obesity treatment still exist, with insurance coverage often limited. It is important for women living with obesity to work with healthcare providers to explore treatment options tailored to their needs.