Obesity is a rapidly spreading chronic disease that significantly increases the risk of developing numerous other health conditions. It’s estimated that obesity is linked to over 200 diseases, with the strongest connection being to cardiovascular diseases. The urgency of treating obesity is heightened by the fact that cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death in many countries, accounting for more than 50% of all deaths.
According to the Lithuanian Hygiene Institute, the number of obese individuals in the country increased by almost 40% between 2014 and 2022. This trend, combined with the increasing life expectancy and the prevalence of overweight individuals, highlights the severity of the obesity problem. While people are living longer, they are often doing so with poorer health.
The latest report from the Hygiene Institute’s Public Information Center (2023) reveals that the expected healthy lifespan in Lithuania in 2021 was 57.6 years, while the average life expectancy in 2022 was 75.3 years. This means that individuals may spend nearly 18 years living with illness or disability.
Obesity and Cardiovascular Disease
Obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. It increases blood volume, putting extra strain on the heart and leading to higher blood pressure. Additionally, obesity can lead to the accumulation of fat around internal organs, which is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
Lithuania has one of the highest rates of ischemic heart disease in Europe, a condition often linked to obesity. The country’s mortality rate from this disease is significantly higher than that of neighboring countries like Latvia and Estonia.
Endoscopic Gastric Reduction: A Solution
For many people, diet and exercise alone are not enough to effectively manage obesity. In these cases, medical interventions may be necessary. Endoscopic gastric reduction is a minimally invasive procedure that can help individuals lose weight and improve their overall health. It involves using an endoscope to reduce the size of the stomach, leading to reduced food intake and weight loss.
Benefits of Endoscopic Gastric Reduction:
- Minimal invasiveness: No large incisions are required.
- Rapid weight loss: Patients can expect to lose a significant amount of weight in the first few months.
- Improved health: The procedure can help manage conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.