Obesity is a complex and chronic health condition that affects millions of Australians. While often discussed in the media and healthcare settings, it remains widely misunderstood. More than just a number on the scales, obesity has serious implications for physical, mental and social wellbeing.
At Berkeley Medical Centre, we believe in providing clear, evidence-based information to help patients and families understand the health conditions that affect them. In this article, we focus on what obesity really is, why it matters and the factors contributing to its rise in Australia.
What Is Obesity?
Obesity is a medical condition characterised by an excessive accumulation of body fat that can negatively impact a person’s health. It is classified as a chronic disease by the World Health Organization and Australian health authorities due to its long-term nature and association with serious health risks.
The most common method for identifying obesity is the Body Mass Index (BMI), a calculation based on weight and height:
- Underweight: BMI below 18.5
- Healthy weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
- Overweight: BMI between 25.0 and 29.9
- Obese: BMI of 30 or more
While BMI provides a general guideline, it does not account for differences in muscle mass or fat distribution. That’s why waist circumference is also used. A waistline greater than 94 cm in men or 80 cm in women may indicate increased risk, especially when excess fat is stored around the abdomen.
Obesity in Australia: A Growing Public Health Concern
Over the past several decades, obesity rates have climbed significantly in Australia, affecting people across all age groups and demographics.
According to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW):
- Around 67% of adults in Australia are classified as overweight or obese
- Approximately 1 in 4 children and adolescents are living with excess weight
- Obesity contributes to a significant number of chronic disease cases and preventable hospitalisations every year
This rise in obesity has led public health authorities to identify it as a major national health priority. It is increasingly clear that understanding and addressing the root causes of obesity is essential for improving long-term health outcomes.
What Causes Obesity?
Obesity does not result from a single factor. Instead, it develops over time through a complex interaction between biological, behavioural, psychological, environmental and social influences.
Diet and Nutrition
Modern dietary habits often include high levels of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods. Frequent consumption of processed snacks, takeaway meals, sugary beverages and large portion sizes contributes significantly to excess weight gain.
Physical Inactivity
More people today work in sedentary jobs and rely on vehicles for transportation, leading to lower overall energy expenditure. Leisure time is increasingly spent on screens rather than in physical activity, especially among children and teenagers.
Genetic and Biological Factors
Genetics can influence how the body stores fat, regulates appetite and responds to food intake. Some people may be more predisposed to gaining weight due to hereditary traits, although lifestyle factors still play a large role in how those traits are expressed.
Psychological and Emotional Factors
Mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety and chronic stress, can affect eating behaviour and motivation for activity. Emotional eating or disrupted sleep can further contribute to weight gain.
Environmental and Socioeconomic Influences
Access to healthy food, safe spaces for exercise, financial resources and time constraints all impact the ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Communities with fewer health-supportive resources often face higher rates.
Health Implications
Understanding obesity also means recognising the health risks associated with it. Obesity is linked to a range of serious medical conditions that can significantly reduce quality of life and increase healthcare needs over time.
Common obesity-related health risks include:
- Type 2 Diabetes: Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, increases insulin resistance and the risk of diabetes.
- Heart Disease and Stroke: Obesity contributes to high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and cardiovascular complications.
- Certain Types of Cancer: Research has linked obesity to a higher likelihood of developing bowel, breast, kidney and endometrial cancers.
- Sleep Apnoea: Excess fat around the neck and upper airway can cause interrupted breathing during sleep.
- Joint and Musculoskeletal Issues: Carrying additional weight places strain on joints, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis, back pain and reduced mobility.
- Mental Health Conditions: Obesity is often associated with poor self-esteem, social withdrawal and psychological distress.
These risks tend to increase the longer a person lives with obesity, which makes early understanding and awareness particularly important.
Why Understanding Matters
Obesity is not simply a lifestyle issue or personal failing it is a chronic and often progressive condition influenced by a variety of factors, many of which lie outside an individual’s direct control. Misunderstanding obesity can lead to stigma, delayed care and poor health outcomes.
By learning about the causes and risks associated with obesity, individuals, families and communities are better equipped to:
- Recognise early signs of health change
- Engage in open conversations with GPs and healthcare providers
- Support children and adolescents in forming healthy habits early
- Participate in broader public health efforts to reduce risk factors across the population
Final Thoughts
Obesity is a serious health issue that affects millions of Australians. It develops gradually, often due to a combination of environmental, psychological, behavioural and biological factors. Understanding obesity rather than blaming or oversimplifying it is the first step toward making informed, compassionate health decisions. At Berkeley Medical Centre, we are committed to patient education and early detection. Whether you are concerned about your own weight, your child’s health or a family history of chronic disease, we believe awareness is the foundation for better health outcomes.
