For Australian women juggling careers, family responsibilities, and personal wellness, obesity isn’t just about numbers on a scale – it’s a multifaceted health challenge that impacts daily life, long-term wellbeing, and healthcare costs.
Additionally, obesity-related medical expenses are a notable concern for the Australian healthcare system, with costs exceeding $11.8 billion according to the National Obesity Strategy.1 Hence, addressing this issue is critical for improving health outcomes and reducing financial strain.
This guide explores five key aspects of obesity for women, from its definition to practical solutions for managing it. Whether for yourself or supporting a loved one, these insights aim to empower you to make informed decisions for optimal health and wellness.
5 Key Aspects of Obesity Every Woman Should Know
Let’s delve into the five essential aspects of obesity every woman should know:
1. What is Obesity? Is it a Disease?
Obesity, defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO), is a chronic disease characterised by excessive fat that presents health risks, affects 61% of Australian women.2 While Body Mass Index (BMI) classifies obesity (≥30 kg/m²), it is just one tool with limitations for assessing weight status:3
- Doesn’t account for muscle mass: A muscular individual might be classified as overweight or obese based on their BMI, even though they have a healthy body composition.
- May not be appropriate for all ethnic groups: Different populations may have varying relationships between BMI and health risks.
- Doesn’t consider fat distribution: Where fat is stored in the body can significantly impact health risks.
- Fails to assess metabolic health: It doesn’t provide information about blood sugar levels, cholesterol, or blood pressure.
Because of these limitations, healthcare professionals often use alternative measurements in conjunction with BMI to get a more complete picture of an individual’s health:4
- Waist circumference: Helps assess abdominal fat (ideally below 88 cm for women).
- Waist-to-hip ratio: Provides insights into fat distribution (ideally below 0.85 for females).
- Body composition analysis: Measures the proportion of fat, muscle, and bone in the body. This can be done through various techniques like bioelectrical impedance or DEXA scans.
2. What Are the Different Types of Female Obesity? (+ Why it Matters)
Research has identified several distinct types of obesity that particularly affect women.5 These different patterns of fat distribution can have varying impacts on health:
Gynoid (Pear-Shaped or Lower Body) Obesity:
This type of obesity is characterised by fat distribution mainly in the hips and thighs. It is generally considered less metabolically harmful than other types and may even offer some protection against cardiovascular disease. Gynoid obesity might be more common in pre-menopausal women, likely due to the influence of oestrogen on fat storage.5
Android (Apple-Shaped or Upper Body) Obesity:
In android obesity, fat is concentrated around the abdomen. This type is associated with higher cardiovascular risks, including heart disease and stroke. It might be more common after menopause, as the decrease in oestrogen levels may lead to increased abdominal fat storage.5 It is also linked to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes.6
Generalised Obesity:
Generalised obesity involves a more even distribution of fat throughout the body. While it may not carry the same specific risks as android obesity, it can significantly affect mobility and overall quality of life. It is often associated with genetic factors that influence fat storage and metabolism.7
3. What Are the Common Causes of Obesity in Women?
Obesity isn’t simply about eating too much or exercising too little. Research points to multiple contributing factors to what makes a woman obese:8,9
Hormonal Influences:
- Oestrogen: This hormone plays a significant role in fat distribution and metabolism. Fluctuations in oestrogen levels during menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can influence weight gain.8 For example, oestrogen dominance can lead to increased fat storage, while low oestrogen (common during menopause) can shift fat storage towards the abdomen.9
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This hormonal disorder affects many women and may lead to insulin resistance, weight gain, and difficulty losing weight.8,10
- Thyroid disorders: An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can slow down metabolism and contribute to weight gain.8
Lifestyle Factors:
- Unhealthy diet: A diet high in processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can lead to an excess calorie intake, contributing to weight gain. Portion sizes and frequent snacking also play a role.10
- Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyles and insufficient exercise contribute to an energy imbalance, where caloric intake exceeds caloric expenditure.10
- Sleep deprivation: Lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite and satiety, leading to increased hunger and cravings.10
- Stress: Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which can promote fat storage, particularly around the abdomen. Stress can also trigger emotional eating and unhealthy food choices.10
Genetic Predisposition:
- Family history: Genetics can influence metabolism, fat storage, and appetite, making some individuals more prone to weight gain. If obesity runs in your family, you might be at 40-70% risk.10,11
- Specific genes: Research has identified certain genes linked to obesity, although the genetic contribution to obesity is complex and still being studied. Over 15 genes identified that might influence weight.10
Medical Conditions and Medications:
- Certain medical conditions: Cushing’s syndrome, hypothyroidism, and insulin resistance may contribute to weight gain.10
- Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants, steroids, and certain birth control pills, might have weight gain as a side effect.10
It’s important to remember that obesity is often a result of a combination of these factors. Understanding the underlying causes may help you make informed choices. Consider working with a qualified weight loss expert in Australia to develop personalised strategies for weight management and overall health.
4. What are the Effects of Obesity in Women?
Obesity poses several health risks for women. Some of the most common implications include:
Cardiovascular Diseases:
- Heart Disease: Obesity might significantly increase the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, and heart failure in women, according to a prospective study.12
- Stroke: Being overweight or obese may also lead to high blood pressure and cholesterol, both significant risk factors for stroke.13
Metabolic Disorders:
- Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity might be able to disrupt the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, leading to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.14
- Metabolic Syndrome: This cluster of conditions (including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels) is likely to increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.15
Gynaecological and Reproductive Issues:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder common in women of reproductive age, often associated with obesity. It might cause irregular periods, infertility, and excess hair growth.16
- Infertility: Obesity may affect ovulation and make it more difficult to get pregnant.17
- Pregnancy Complications: Obese pregnant women might have a higher risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and caesarean delivery.18
Certain Cancers:
- Endometrial Cancer: Obesity might increase the risk of cancer of the uterine lining. As reported by Cancer Australia, this risk rises by 16% for every 5 kg of weight gained during adulthood.19
- Breast Cancer: Especially after menopause, obesity is significantly linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.20
- Ovarian Cancer: Obesity may increase the risk of ovarian cancer.21
Other Health Problems:
- Sleep Apnea: Obesity is likely to cause sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.22
- Mental Health Issues: Obesity might strongly contribute to depression and low self-esteem.23
- Increased risk of complications from COVID-19: Studies have shown that obesity is a significant risk factor for severe illness and hospitalisation from COVID-19.24
It’s important to note that these are just some of the potential health implications of obesity in women. The specific risks and their severity can vary depending on individual factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle.
If you are concerned about your weight or have any health concerns related to obesity, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner in Australia. They can help you assess your individual risk factors and recommend appropriate strategies for weight management and disease prevention.
5. How Can You Safely Manage Obesity?
Are you searching for health-first solutions to deal with obesity? It’s a complex condition with multiple contributing factors. Managing it effectively often requires a multifaceted approach tailored to the individual. Here are some evidence-based strategies that are commonly employed:
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Calorie Reduction: Creating a consistent calorie deficit is key for weight loss. This can be achieved by reducing portion sizes, limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats, and focusing on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.25
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps burn calories, build muscle mass, and improve overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week.26
- Behavioural Therapy: This can help you identify and change unhealthy emotional eating habits and develop strategies for coping with challenges to weight loss. It may involve techniques like self-monitoring, stress management, and problem-solving.27
Medications:
In some cases, doctors may prescribe weight-loss or anti obesity medications to complement lifestyle changes. These medications work through different mechanisms, such as suppressing appetite or reducing fat absorption. They should be used under medical supervision and are not a quick fix.28
Surgery:
For individuals with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40) or those with BMI ≥ 35 and obesity-related health problems, bariatric surgery may be an option. These procedures reduce the size of the stomach or bypass part of the digestive system, leading to significant weight loss and improvement in health conditions.29
Ongoing Support:
Obesity is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Maintaining weight loss can be challenging, and support groups, online follow-up appointments with healthcare providers, and ongoing behavioural therapy can be helpful.30
Think of consulting with your healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate and effective weight loss treatment strategy for your specific situation. They can assess your health status, discuss your goals, and guide you through the available options.
Wrapping It Up!
Understanding obesity as a complex disease rather than a simple weight issue is essential for effective management. Women face unique challenges in dealing with obesity, but with proper understanding and support, you can take control of their health journey.
If you’re concerned about obesity, consider talking to weight loss experts who can provide personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances. Remember, every woman’s journey is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Need help? Start here:Take the quiz!
Ready to start your weight loss journey?
- Prescription medication
- Injectable treatments
- Australian registered practitioners
References
- Commonwealth of Australia. National Obesity Strategy 2022 – 2032: At a Glance.; 2022. https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2022/03/national-obesity-strategy-2022-2032-at-a-glance-summary-with-a-logic-framework_0.pdf
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Overweight and obesity. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Published 2024. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/overweight-obesity/overweight-and-obesity/contents/overweight-and-obesity
- World Health Organisation. Obesity and overweight. World Health Organisation. Published March 1, 2024. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight
- Callahan EA. The science, strengths, and limitations of body mass index. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Published July 31, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK594362/
- Cameron AJ, Magliano DJ, Söderberg S. A systematic review of the impact of including both waist and hip circumference in risk models for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and mortality. Obesity Reviews. 2012;14(1):86-94. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-789x.2012.01051.x
- Peterson MD, Snih A, Serra-Rexach JA, Burant C. Android Adiposity and Lack of Moderate and Vigorous Physical Activity Are Associated With Insulin Resistance and Diabetes in Aging Adults. The Journals of Gerontology: Series A. 2015;70(8):1009-1017. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glv002
- Goh VHH, Hart WG. Excess fat in the abdomen but not general obesity is associated with poorer metabolic and cardiovascular health in premenopausal and postmenopausal Asian women. Maturitas. 2018;107:33-38. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2017.10.002
- Cleveland Clinic. High Oestrogen: Causes, Symptoms, Dominance & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Published February 9, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22363-high-estrogen
- Overweight and Obesity – Obesity and Women’s Health | NHLBI, NIH. www.nhlbi.nih.gov. Published March 24, 2022. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/overweight-and-obesity/women
- Brigitte Leeners, Nori Geary, Philippe N. Tobler, Lori Asarian, Ovarian hormones and obesity, Human Reproduction Update, Volume 23, Issue 3, May-June 2017, Pages 300–321, https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/dmw045
- McPherson R. Genetic contributors to obesity. Canadian Journal of Cardiology. 2007;23:23A27A. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s0828-282x(07)71002-4
- Manson JE, Colditz GA, Stampfer MJ, et al. A Prospective Study of Obesity and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in Women. New England Journal of Medicine. 1990;322(13):882-889. doi:https://doi.org/10.1056/nejm199003293221303
- Stay a healthy weight. Stroke.org.uk. Published 2024. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://www.stroke.org.uk/stroke/manage-risk/stay-a-healthy-weight#How%20can%20I%20lose%20weight?
- Yashi K, Daley SF. Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. PubMed. Published June 19, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK592412/\
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Metabolic Syndrome – What Is Metabolic Syndrome? www.nhlbi.nih.gov. Published May 18, 2022. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/metabolic-syndrome
- Rosenberg S. The Relationship Between PCOS and Obesity: Which Comes First? The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences. 2019;13(1). https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol13/iss1/5/
- Office on Women’s Health. Weight, fertility, and pregnancy. womenshealth.gov. Published January 10, 2018. https://www.womenshealth.gov/healthy-weight/weight-fertility-and-pregnancy
- C-section information for overweight women. Tommys.org. Published 2018. https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/giving-birth/caesarean-section/c-section-advice-overweight-women
- Overweight and obesity | Cancer Australia. Canceraustralia.gov.au. Published 2024. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/endometrial-cancer/awareness/lifestyle/overweight-and-obesity
- CDC. Obesity and Cancer. Cancer. Published May 13, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/risk-factors/obesity.html
- National Cancer Institute. Obesity and Cancer. National Cancer Institute. Published 2022. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/obesity/obesity-fact-sheet
- Wolk R, Shamsuzzaman ASM, Somers VK. Obesity, Sleep Apnea, and Hypertension. Hypertension. 2003;42(6):1067-1074. doi:https://doi.org/10.1161/01.hyp.0000101686.98973.a3
- Simon GE, Ludman EJ, Linde JA, et al. Association between obesity and depression in middle-aged women. General Hospital Psychiatry. 2008;30(1):32-39. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2007.09.001
- CDC. Obesity, Race/Ethnicity, and COVID-19 | Overweight & Obesity | CDC. www.cdc.gov. Published September 17, 2020. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/obesity-and-covid-19.html
- JY. Optimal diet strategies for weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome. 2020;30(1):20-31. doi:https://doi.org/10.7570/jomes20065
- Mayo Clinic. Exercise intensity: How to measure it. Mayo Clinic. Published June 17, 2021. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise-intensity/art-20046887
- John Hopkins Medicine. Intensive Behavioral Therapy for Obesity. www.hopkinsmedicine.org. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/intensive-behavioral-therapy-for-obesity
- Ard J, Fitch A, Fruh S, Herman L. Weight Loss and Maintenance Related to the Mechanism of Action of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists. Advances in Therapy. 2021;38(6):2821-2839. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s12325-021-01710-0
- Crossan K, Sheer AJ. Surgical Options In the Treatment of Severe Obesity. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576372/
- Mayo Clinic. Obesity – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic. Mayoclinic. Published September 2, 2021. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obesity/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20375749
- Healthcare out-of-pocket costs: an agenda for International Women’s Day. Grattan Institute. https://grattan.edu.au/news/healthcare-out-of-pocket-costs-an-agenda-for-international-womens-day/
