Being overweight increases the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
A) overweight
B) underweight
C) at recommended weight
D) below BMI 18
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A) overweight.
Being overweight is a major risk factor for a variety of chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. The term “overweight” typically refers to having a body mass index (BMI) that falls between 25 and 29.9. This classification is used to identify individuals who carry more weight than is considered healthy for their height.
Excess weight, particularly when it is accumulated in the abdominal region, can cause several detrimental effects on the body. One of the key mechanisms is the increased strain placed on the heart and blood vessels. The heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, which raises the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure). Over time, this can contribute to heart disease and increase the likelihood of strokes and other cardiovascular issues.
Additionally, being overweight contributes to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin. This makes it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels, which increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar over time can also damage organs and nerves, leading to other complications.
Cancer is another significant concern for individuals who are overweight. Studies have shown that obesity is linked to an increased risk of developing various types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and kidney cancers. This is thought to be related to hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, and metabolic changes that accompany excess weight.
In contrast, being underweight (B) or below the BMI 18 threshold (D) can also be associated with health risks such as malnutrition, weakened immune function, and bone loss, but the risks related to chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes are more strongly associated with being overweight. Maintaining a weight within the recommended BMI range (C) is generally associated with a lower risk of these chronic conditions.