Obesity: disease or symptom?
- Open Gate Portugal
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
In January 2025, The Economist published an article discussing whether obesity should be considered a disease in its own right or just a risk factor for other diseases. (Is obesity a disease? - The Economist)
Why it matters
Traditionally, obesity has been seen as a risk factor for diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stroke. But a growing number of scientists believe that obesity itself is a chronic disease that requires a separate approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Arguments in favour of recognising obesity as a disease
Medical recognition: Recognising obesity as a disease may lead to it being taken more seriously by the medical community and patients.
Access to treatment: It can improve access to specialised treatment and prevention.
Reducing stigma: Understanding obesity as a disease can reduce blaming of patients and increase empathy.
Arguments against
- Individual differences:
Not all people with a high body mass index (BMI) suffer from co-morbidities. (Obesity - the disease of our century - online presentation)
- Risk of over-medicalisation:
There is concern that recognising obesity as a disease may lead to excessive medical intervention.
New approaches to diagnosis
Recent studies suggest a move away from using BMI as the sole criterion for diagnosing obesity. Instead, it suggests considering the distribution of body fat, its impact on organ function and overall health. (Obesity is the disease of our century - online presentation, We're measuring obesity wrong - experts pinpoint 3 signs you may fit the bill regardless of your BMI)
Conclusion
Whether obesity is a disease in its own right remains an open question. However, one thing is clear: a more comprehensive and individualised approach to understanding and treating obesity is needed, taking into account biological, psychological and social factors.
For a more in-depth understanding of the topic, we recommend reading the full article in The Economist. (Is obesity a disease? - The Economist)
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