It also occurs, but is less common, in developing countries. Obesity tends to be more common among people aged 40-60 years and those from lower income groups. Today, more people are obese than ever before. It is normal to store fat during growth, particularly during infancy and adolescence. It is therefore difficult to measure obesity in children.
Men tend to be more 'apple shaped' whereas women tend to be more 'pear shaped'.
People who are very overweight find it more difficult to be physically active and this may add to their health problems. Most of the health problems associated with obesity are removed once the extra weight is lost. Although people who smoke cigarettes tend to weigh less than people who do not smoke, the risks from smoking are greater than those of being obese. Lack of activity is an important factor in the increasing incidence of obesity. Walking or cycling instead of using a car, going to exercise classes and taking part in team sports such as football or basketball can all help a person maintain a healthy body weight by increasing energy output.