Sleep apnea, one of the common complications of obesity, leads to frequent interruptions of breathing during sleep. - **Symptoms:** - Loud snoring - Drowsiness during the day - Increased risk of heart diseases #### 5. Cancer Obesity in men is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, including colon, prostate, and liver cancer. Excess fat can cause changes in hormones and chronic inflammation, both of which are factors in the growth of cancer cells. #### 6. Joint and skeletal problems Obesity causes double pressure on the joints and causes problems such as knee arthritis and back pain in men in particular. - **related factors:** - Less mobility - Weakness of muscles supporting joints ### Complications of obesity in women #### 1. Menstrual and fertility disorders Obesity has a great negative effect on the reproductive system of women. - **Menstrual problems:** - Irregularity in the menstrual cycle - Complete cessation of menstruation - **Fertility problems:** Obesity can lead to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is one of the most common causes of infertility. #### 2. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) PCOS is a hormonal disorder with symptoms such as: - Excessive hair growth - Acne - Weight gain - Absence of ovulation is associated. #### 3. Increased risk of cancer Obesity in women is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers such as breast, ovarian, uterine, and colon cancer. - **What is the reason?** Excess fat increases the production of estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of cancer cells. #### 4. Mental problems and depression Obesity in women causes more mental problems and lower self-confidence than men due to social pressures. - **Symptoms:** - Anxiety - Depression - isolationism #### 5. Gestational diabetes Obese women are more at risk of gestational diabetes during pregnancy. This disease is dangerous not only for the mother but also for the fetus and can cause excessive weight gain of the baby and birth problems. We suggest you read the article **Effects of weight loss before pregnancy**. #### 6. Joint problems Obesity in women, like men, causes pressure on the joints and increases the risk of arthritis. This issue is especially aggravated during pregnancy when body weight increases. ### Mental and psychological effects of obesity Obesity in men and women has different psychological effects, such as: - Decreased self-confidence - Increased social anxiety - Fear of others' judgment - Depression ### Table: Comparison of obesity complications in women and men ### Your questions about the complications of obesity in women and men 1. **Does obesity cause infertility?** Yes, obesity can lead to infertility problems in both men and women in some cases. 2. **Does losing weight remove the complications of obesity?** Yes, losing weight can improve many conditions such as diabetes and heart problems. 3. How does obesity affect the quality of sleep? Obesity can cause sleep apnea and reduce sleep quality. 4. What are the risks of obesity during pregnancy? It increases the risk of gestational diabetes, premature birth and excess weight of the baby. 5. What methods are there to prevent obesity? Adherence to a balanced diet, regular exercise and stress management are effective methods of prevention. ### Strategies to prevent and reduce the complications of obesity #### 1. Healthy eating - Consuming low-fat and high-fiber foods - Avoiding fast food and sugary drinks #### 2. Regular exercise - Aerobic exercises at least 150 minutes per week - Strength exercises to strengthen muscles