Obesity is a risk factor contributing to many illnesses and medical conditions. It can increase the likeliness of death associated with diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension by as much as 150 percent. Many co-morbidities (co-existing diseases) and obesity related conditions can be reversed with sufficient weight loss, proper nutrition and diet, exercise and a healthy lifestyle.

Common co-existing diseases:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease and high cholesterol
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Kidney and gallbladder disease
• Osteoarthritis (degeneration of cartilage and joints)
• Sleep apnea, asthma, and other breathing problems
• Stroke
• Fatty liver

Obesity is also associated with the following conditions:

• Acid reflux (heartburn)
• Back pain
• Depression
• Infertility and pregnancy complications
• Menstrual irregularities
• Sexual dysfunction
• Social discrimination
• Urinary incontinence
• Unemployability