Obesity ‘as risky as smoking’
Being obese is just as big a health risk as smoking, a group of medical experts have claimed.
Recent research has indicated that a body mass index (BMI) above the ideal range of 22.5-25 kg/m2 can have a significant effect on mortality rates.
Scientists examined around 900,000 adults in order to determine the relationship between BMI and the risk of dying from particular diseases.
The results suggested that severe obesity – a BMI of 40 to 50 – reduced life expectancy by around ten years.
Furthermore, moderate obesity – a BMI 30 and 39 – also reduced life expectancy by three years.
Dr Gary Whitlock, from the University of Oxford, said: "If you are becoming overweight or obese, avoiding further weight gain could well add years to your life.”
A recent study conducted at the University of California revealed that a ‘fat controller’ found in the gut could prevent conditions such as heart disease, obesity and diabetes.
The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people living with obesity
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