Obesity: Knowledge is power

Person with obesity singing into a microphone at a bar
true
QUICK LINKS
enhanced-related-link, ctaselection-link
Browse myths vs. facts
style
background-primary-red
style
background-primary-red
Heart half icon
style
background-primary-red, two-col-50-50
extra-styles
offset
style
background-primary-red

Obesity is a chronic disease, not a choice1. It's a condition where having too much body fat can cause health problems1,2.

It’s estimated that one in four adults live with obesity in the United Kingdom2 and more than 2.5 billion people worldwide are living with this disease.3
style
background-primary-red, two-col-50-50
extra-styles
offset
style
background-primary-red

UNDERSTANDING OBESITY

Let’s end the stigma

backgroundColor
none
additionalPadding
none
additionalMargins
none
In many ways, obesity is still viewed as a personal failure and a matter of willpower rather than a chronic medical condition. This can make it harder for people trying to manage their obesity. 4
We want to address misconception, eliminate stigma and imagine a better future for people around the world living with obesity so they can get the care they need and live healthier lives.
style
background-none, two-col-50-50
extra-styles
offset

Why obesity care matters

Obesity can impact your day-to-day life and can raise your risk of other health conditions or concerns like the following2.

Heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a person sitting in a chair and looking down at the blood pressure monitor wrapped around their upper arm. Text over image: Heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Icon of a heart.

Anatomical Heart Icon White.ai

High blood sugar or diabetes

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a person sitting down while using a glucometer. Text over image: High blood sugar or diabetes. Icon of a blood droplet.

drop-white

Stroke

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a person sitting in a chair and looking out a window. Text over image: Stroke. Icon of a brain.

Brain Icon White.ai

Some types of cancer

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a person wearing a knit hat. Text over image: Some types of cancer. Icon of a cell.

Cancer Cell Icon White

Liver disease

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a person leaning on the arm rest of a treadmill. Text over image: Liver disease. Icon of a liver.

Liver Icon White

Problems with sleep

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a person sleeping in bed. Text over image: Problems with sleep. Icon of a bed.

bed.svg

Please speak to your healthcare professional if you are worried or concerned about the impact of obesity on other health conditions
This is not an exhaustive list of health conditions or concerns obesity may affect.
style
background-none
additionalPadding
narrow

BUILD UNDERSTANDING

What causes obesity?

Separating science from stigma – explore myths vs. facts
Myth No. 1

“Obesity is caused by laziness and a lack of willpower.”

two-column-text-carousel-item, leftcolumntext-fs-36px, rightcolumntext-fs-24px
Fact
Obesity can be caused by a mix of complex biological, genetic, and environmental factors, many of which you can’t control.5
Myth No. 2
two-column-text-carousel-item, leftcolumntext-fs-36px, rightcolumntext-fs-24px
Fact
Genes you inherit from your parents play a role in your own weight.5
Myth No. 3

“The human brain and hormones play no role in obesity.”

two-column-text-carousel-item, leftcolumntext-fs-36px, rightcolumntext-fs-24px
Fact
Your brain and hormones send signals to help control hunger, fullness, metabolism (how your body burns or stores calories), and body weight. In people with obesity, these signals may not work as well as they should.6,7
text
myth-facts
additionalPadding
narrow

How is obesity
diagnosed?

Your health is more than a number on a scale and diagnosing obesity is about more than just measuring weight.

Obesity affects each person differently2. That's why healthcare professionals should look at the full picture of your health, not just one number like BMI (body mass index).8

For adults 18 years or older, BMI measures the relationship between height and weight and while it can be a starting point, it doesn't tell the whole story - especially when it comes to things like muscle mass or ethnicity2

To better understand your health, healthcare professionals may consider:

style
background-none, two-col-75-25
extra-styles
offset

Your unique background and where weight is carried

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage

Things like your age, sex, and racial or ethnic background can affect how your body gains weight and stores fat.9 For example, people of Asian descent may face weight-related problems at lower BMI levels compared to the conventional BMI scale because they have different body compositions and are at risk of certain health conditions, like diabetes, at lower BMI levels than people of other ethnic backgrounds.8

Your healthcare professional might measure your waist at your belly button to check how much fat your body stores around your belly. More belly fat can increase your risk of health issues.8

Photograph of a person taking their own blood pressure while looking at a device during a telehealth visit.

Other health conditions

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage
High blood pressure, blood sugar problems, joint pain, or sleep issues can all be signs that excess weight is affecting your health.2
Photograph of a healthcare professional measuring the blood pressure of a person.

Body fat and muscle

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage
Some tools can measure your body composition, helping tell how much muscle versus fat your body has.2
Photograph of a person doing a wall squat outside.

How you feel and live

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage
Healthcare professionals may ask about your diet, sleep, exercise, and stress. These all shape your overall health.2
Photograph of a person at the gym, wiping their face with a towel.
Nurse talking with patient
additionalPadding
narrow

We believe in a compassionate approach to care.

Obesity is a chronic disease influenced by many factors: biology, environment, health behaviours and conditions, and more. 1,2 You deserve care that sees the whole you — your body, your life, and your goals.

An accurate diagnosis can be the first step toward quality care. With the right support and management, weight reduction may also lead to benefits like reducing the risk of developing health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.9
backgroundColor
primary-red
extra-styles
offset
style
two-col-50-50

MANAGEMENT

Obesity care is different
for everyone

You’re unique. Shouldn’t your care plan be? Obesity
management can include many areas of care, including:
backgroundColor
primary-red
additionalPadding
narrow
additionalMargins
none

Healthy eating

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage

What you eat and drink affects your weight, but obesity management isn't just about dieting.

  • Find what works for you: There's no one perfect diet. A registered dietitian can help create a plan that fits your lifestyle. 10,11
  • Improve your relationship with food: Many people struggle with food. A healthcare professional can help you build healthier habits.10
  • Balance food and exercise: Eating well and staying active are both important for your overall health, even if weight loss is slow. 10
Photograph of a person holding an apple in their hand.

Staying active

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage

Moving your body is great for your health, no matter your weight.

  • Pick an activity you enjoy so you’ll stick with it. 10
  • Find something that fits your routine and is easy to do.
  • Be flexible. Your exercise plan may need to change with the seasons.
  • Focus on being consistent rather than pushing yourself too hard.
Photograph of a person standing in a gym.

Getting help from a healthcare professional

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage

A healthcare professional can be a big help on your obesity management journey.

They can:

  • Check for health issues linked to obesity.10
  • See if any medications you're taking cause weight gain. 2
  • Help you build healthy habits and take care of your mental health.
  • Suggest treatments like medication along with diet and exercise or surgery, if needed.2
Photograph of a doctor

Taking care of your mental health

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage

Your weight isn’t just about your body— your mind matters too.

  • Dealing with stigma: Society can be harsh, and negative attitudes about weight can affect self-esteem. 2
  • Getting support: Professionals like therapists and counselors can help with emotions and building confidence.
Photograph of a person having a conversation with their therapist.

Better sleep for better health

accordion-item, title-fs-24px, titlestyle-standardtitle, layout-2column, column1-contenttypedescription, contenttypedescription-fs-16px, column2-seccontenttypeimage

Good sleep may help with obesity management and overall well-being. Adults should aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night. 12

Sleep tips: 12

  • Keep your room dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and big meals before bed.
  • Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
Photograph of a person sleeping in bed.
additionalPadding
narrow

Sleep Apnoea: Address
breathing interruptions

Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder that causes interruptions in your breathing during sleep.13 There are two main types: central sleep apnoea (CSA) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). 13 OSA is the most common type.13
style
background-primary-red
additionalPadding
narrow
style
background-primary-red

SLEEP APONEA SYMPTOMS

More than 2.5 million people in the UK are estimated to be living with undiagnosed OSA.14

Recognising the signs of sleep apnoea can be an important first step to getting the care you need. Symptoms of sleep apnoea may vary, but here are some of the common symptoms15
style
background-primary-red, two-col-75-25
extra-styles
offset

Excessive daytime sleepiness

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a person taking nap.

fatigue white icon

Sleep apnoea can lead to difficulty concentrating

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a man sitting on stairs and thinking.

concentration white icon

Sleep apnoea can cause morning headaches

small-media-carousel-item, title-fs-32px

Photograph of a Black women close up.

morning headache white icon

If you are concerned about sleep apnoea or its symptoms, please speak to your healthcare professional.
style
background-primary-red
additionalPadding
narrow
style
background-primary-red
additionalPadding
narrow

SLEEP APNOEA RISK FACTORS

style
background-primary-red, two-col-50-50
extra-styles
offset

Certain factors can put you at a higher risk for sleep apnoea

If you don’t fall into any of these categories but are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnoea, talk to a healthcare professional. There may be additional risk factors.16
Gender male icon
People of the male sex
bulleted-icon-list-item, icondescription-fs-24px
User circle dashed icon
Increasing age
bulleted-icon-list-item, icondescription-fs-24px
Three users icon
Family history of OSA
bulleted-icon-list-item, icondescription-fs-24px
person arms spread icon
Obesity or overweight
bulleted-icon-list-item, icondescription-fs-24px
style
background-primary-red, two-col-50-50
extra-styles
offset

References

  1. NHS inform. Obesity [Internet]. Edinburgh: NHS Scotland; 17 Sep 2025 [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/nutritional/obesity/
  2. NHS. Obesity [Internet]. London: NHS England; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/
  3. The impact of food and diet on obesity. UK Parliament Debate 10 Jan 2025. [Accessed 19th May 2026] Available from: https://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/CDP-2025-0002/CDP-2025-0002.pdf
  4. Rubino F et al. Nature Medicine. 2020; 26(4): 485–497.
  5. NHS. Obesity – causes [Internet]. London: NHS England; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/causes/
  6. Forbes. What Really Drives Hunger And Fullness: The Science Explained. USA: Forbes; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: What Really Drives Hunger And Fullness: The Science Explained
  7. Gruber T et al. Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2024; 36:42-54
  8. NHS. Calculate your body mass index (BMI) for adults. London: NHS England; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/health-assessment-tools/calculate-your-body-mass-index/calculate-bmi-for-adults
  9. NHS England Digital Health Survey for England 2024 19th May 2026. https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/health-survey-for-england/2024/adults-overweight-and-obesity
  10. NHS. Lose Weight. London: NHS England; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight/
  11. NHS. Obesity – Treatment. London: NHS England; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/treatment/
  12. NHS. Fall asleep faster and sleep better. London: NHS England; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips/how-to-fall-asleep-faster-and-sleep-better/
  13. Akbarian S et al. J Med Internet Res. 2020;22(5):e17252.
  14. Royal College of Nursing. Sleep apnoea: when snoring becomes dangerous. 19th May 2026. https://www.rcn.org.uk/magazines/Clinical/2026/Jan/Sleep-apnoea-when-snoring-becomes-dangerous
  15. NHS. Sleep apnoea [Internet]. London: NHS England; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-apnoea/
  16. NICE. Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome:What are the risk factors? United Kingdom: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence; [accessed 19th May 2026]. Available from: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/obstructive-sleep-apnoea-syndrome/background-information/risk-factors/
CMAT-06468 May 2026
style
background-primary-red
additionalPadding
narrow