Q: Everyone in my family is on the “heavy” side, but I am the only one who is overweight and has SB. I am only 21 years old. What are the unique concerns that I have ?

A:

In adults, and recently in children, obesity has become a major health risk. In the general population, obesity has been linked to high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoarthritis, abnormal cholesterol metabolism, heart disease, sleep apnea, and psychological problems. For people who have Spina Bifida, even more problems are associated with being seriously overweight. Approximately 50% of people with SB are obese. Weight problems make all activities of daily life more challenging, like maintaining mobility (or fitting well in your wheelchair) and good hygiene. This makes it harder to keep up in social and work situations. It adds to the amount of pressure on skin, thus increasing the already high risk of skin breakdown. Social rejection, which may already be a problem due to others' lack of sensitivity and understanding of disability, may be worsened. Activities of daily living, particularly independence in dressing, continence management and hygiene (reaching those hard to get private areas) may be negatively affected by difficulties in moving a heavy body. This leads to a spiraling problem of decreased motivation, minimal energy use and weight gain. The good news is that health problems associated with obesity can be significantly decreased by adopting a healthy eating and exercise plan.

The SBA has more information on this topic ;in our Obesity information sheet http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/site/c.liKWL7PLLrF/b.2700287/k.C25F/Obesity.htm

* This information does not constitute medical advice for any individual.As specific cases may vary from the general information presented here, SBA advises readers to consult a qualified medical or other professional on an individual basis.