In addition, the risk for cancer of the endometrium, breast, prostate, and colon increases with obesity. Higher body weights are also associated with increases in mortality. One recent study, however, shows that it is a lack of exercise that forms the link between obesity and mortality. In terms of overall health, weight per se may be less important than patterns of activity. Health versus Weight Loss Lifestyle changes, particularly exercise, can improve conditions with little or no weight loss.
Exercise also improves body confidence and sense of pleasure.
It is the key predictor of weight maintenance, but should not necessarily be tied to weight loss. Many exercise programs may be harmful to overweight women by putting stress on knee and hip joints. For patients with diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease, the focus should be shifted to improving these conditions rather than reducing weight per se. It is important to separate social issues from medical issues in clinical care. Focusing on overall health, rather than on weight loss, offers clinicians a way to help patients make behavior changes that can improve health regardless of weight.