The wide-reaching health consequences of excess weight
Obesity is associated with over 200 health conditions. Understanding these complications is essential for UK healthcare professionals supporting patients with excess weight.
Obesity-related complications
Cardiovascular disease
Excess weight is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. Visceral adiposity drives dyslipidaemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance — all key contributors to cardiovascular risk. In the UK, obesity accounts for a significant proportion of preventable cardiovascular deaths each year.
increased risk of coronary heart disease in people with obesity
NICE CG189
Type 2 diabetes
Obesity is the single largest modifiable risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Excess adipose tissue — particularly visceral fat — promotes insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction. NHS England estimates that around 90% of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese.
of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese
NHS England
Mental health
The relationship between obesity and mental health is bidirectional. Depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are both risk factors for and consequences of excess weight. Weight stigma — experienced by 67% of adults with obesity in the UK — compounds psychological distress and can act as a barrier to seeking care.
of adults with obesity report weight stigma from healthcare professionals
Obesity UK, 2022
Musculoskeletal conditions
Excess weight places additional mechanical load on joints, accelerating the development of osteoarthritis — particularly of the knee and hip. Obesity is also associated with chronic low back pain and reduced mobility, which in turn limits physical activity and perpetuates weight gain.
increased risk of knee osteoarthritis in people with obesity
Arthritis Research UK
Cancer risk
Obesity is linked to at least 13 types of cancer, including breast, bowel, uterine, kidney, and oesophageal cancer. Cancer Research UK estimates that obesity is the second biggest preventable cause of cancer in the UK, responsible for around 22,800 cases per year.
cancer types linked to excess weight
Cancer Research UK
Sleep apnoea and respiratory conditions
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is strongly associated with obesity, particularly central adiposity. Excess fat around the neck and upper airway increases the risk of airway collapse during sleep. OSA is associated with daytime sleepiness, cardiovascular risk, and reduced quality of life.
people with obesity have obstructive sleep apnoea
British Thoracic Society
Access clinical resources and guidelines
Browse NHS, NICE, and UK research resources to support evidence-based obesity care.
References
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Obesity: identification, assessment and management. Clinical guideline CG189. NICE; 2014 (updated 2023). www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg189
- NHS England. NHS Long Term Plan. NHS England; 2019. www.longtermplan.nhs.uk
- Obesity UK. Obesity and Stigma: A Report on the Experiences of People Living with Obesity. Obesity UK; 2022. www.obesityuk.org.uk
- Cancer Research UK. Obesity and cancer statistics. www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/risk/obesity
References are provided for informational purposes. Always consult current clinical guidelines and primary sources when making clinical decisions.