The latest advances in the fight against obesity, which affects 40% of Galician adults, are discussed in Santiago

According to the 2020 European Health Survey, 39.2% of adults in Galicia are overweight and 16.5% are obese. These figures not only exceed the national average (37.6% and 16% respectively), but also reflect a growing problem. healthcare in a region where approximately 849,000 people are overweight and more than 357,000 are obese. The congress is expected to present new guidelines to combat obesity, supported by more than 40 scientific societies.

In order to deepen research and develop strategies to combat obesity, the XX National Congress of the Spanish Society for the Fight against Obesity (SEEDO) will be held in Santiago de Compostela. This event, which will take place from November 27 to 29 at the Palace of Congresses and Exhibitions “Galicia”, will bring together more than a thousand professionals of various specialties.

The interdisciplinary approach of the congress will allow us to solve the problem of obesity from biological, medical, social, psychological and economic points of view. The benefits of individual exercise, new dietary patterns and pharmacological resources available to treat this pathology will also be explored.

The congress will bring together national and international experts who will analyze the latest advances in basic and clinical research, as well as new therapeutic tools. Under the motto “Let’s walk together for people living with obesity”The event includes an innovative program that examines everything from the causes to the complications of this disease.

The meeting will include events such as young researcher meetings and roundtables on the future of obesity, providing a key space for knowledge sharing. According to the organizers, this cooperation is necessary to combat a disease that is not yet fully recognized as such, but significantly affects the quality of life of those who suffer from it.

The health risks of obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases. Among the most common are type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease such as heart attack or stroke. These conditions not only reduce the quality of life of those who suffer from them, but also significantly increase premature mortality. In addition, obese people often develop insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, conditions that exacerbate metabolic deterioration.

In addition to the physical consequences, obesity has a negative impact on mental health. Research has shown a link between this condition and problems such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Weight-related social stigma also contributes to social isolation and poor psychological well-being, creating a vicious cycle that makes adherence to treatment or lifestyle changes difficult.

At a structural level, obesity puts pressure on the joints, which can lead to osteoarthritis, especially in the knees and spine. Likewise, the condition is associated with a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast, colon, or liver cancer. The cumulative impact of these problems not only affects individual health, but also places a significant burden on the health care system due to increased demand for treatment and resources.