Obesity

Being overweight

If you are very overweight, HCA UK's experts can evaluate your health risks and discuss your weight loss options.

About

At HCA UK, our team of experts specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of a range of weight-related conditions, including obesity. This is where more calories (energy) are consumed than are burned off through physical activity. As a result, the excess energy is stored as body fat which can lead to a number of health-related problems.

Need to know

  • Symptoms of obesity icon plus

    In the UK, one in every four adults and one in every five children aged 10 and 11 is classed as obese.

    BMI is a widely used measure of your health in relation to weight. It is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres, and generally if you have a BMI of between 30 to 39.9 you are classed as obese.

    Obesity is linked to serious and potentially life-threatening diseases such as:

    • coronary heart disease
    • type 2 diabetes
    • stroke
    • some cancers including bowel cancer and breast cancer

    Obesity be caused by: genetics, an unhealthy diet, inactivity and medical conditions such as Prader-Willi syndrome and Cushing's syndrome.

  • Diagnosis icon plus

    Your GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. Tests they may recommend include:

    • Measuring your waist circumference: men with a waist circumference of at least 94cm/37in and women with a waist circumference of at least 80cm/31.5in are classed as being obese
    • Measuring your blood pressure
    • Asking about your lifestyle and previous medical history
    • Blood tests to analyse your blood sugar (glucose) and cholesterol levels
  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    Treatment options for your obesity depend on the nature of your condition. Your GP or consultant may recommend:

    • Counselling such as cognitive-behaviour-therapy (CBT) to help you better manage your eating and drinking habits
    • Weight loss surgery
    • A diet and exercise plan with the support of your GP or consultant
    • Anti-obesity medication

Our consultants

We're proud to work with leading experts across a range of medical fields, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our facilities

From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Book an appointment

Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

Call us today

020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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