To be considered obese in this report, people had to have a body mass index of 30 or higher. Body mass index is calculated based on height and weight. What alarms doctors is that they got these numbers from a phone survey, and people tend to underestimate their weight when they're asked. The average intake of calories has increased in the past two decades. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say this trend can have serious health implications.
Obesity increases the risk for such problems as heart disease and diabetes.
You can take a step toward better health by keeping your weight under control. Other Topics Health Watch is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.