Obesity: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Health Consequences

Abstract

Overweight and obesity are both labels for ranges of weight that are greater than what is generally considered healthy for a given height. They also identify ranges of weight that have been shown to increase the likelihood of certain diseases and other health problems. Obesity in people with disabilities is associated with the same morbidity and mortality as the general population. In addition those with disabilities have the additional burden of not being able to participate as readily in fitness activities as well as imposing a greater physical burden on their caregivers. More immediate risks are present in rehabilitation settings as obese individuals are more likely to have difficulty with transfers and therefore are at a higher risk of falling. The risk of caregiver injury is also higher. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)