Not Just About Weight: Doctor Explains the Real Health Risks of Obesity
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Obesity has long been a global health concern, but in the Philippines, it’s an issue that is quietly but steadily on the rise. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity rates have nearly tripled worldwide since 1975, with more than 1 billion people affected as of 2022. This isn’t just about appearance - it’s about health. Obesity increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and other chronic conditions.
For Obesity Prevention Awareness Week this September, we spoke with Dr. Willard Madrazo, a General Practitioner at Doctor Anywhere, to better understand what obesity really means, the health problems it can cause, and how Filipinos can take realistic, everyday steps toward prevention.
Obesity: More Than Just a Number on the Scale
When many people think of obesity, they immediately picture excess weight. But Dr. Willard stresses that it’s far more complex.
“Obesity from a medical perspective is not just an increase in weight,” he explains. “It’s a complex, chronic disease. While BMI (Body Mass Index) is the most common way to determine if someone is overweight or obese, it doesn’t account for muscle and fat distribution.”
That’s why other measurements, such as waist circumference, are important.
“For men, a waist circumference above 100 cm (40 inches) and for women, above 88 cm (35 inches) increases the risk for other health concerns,” he says. “More accurate methods like DEXA scans or skinfold tests can measure body fat percentage, but these are more expensive and sometimes prone to error.”
The Health Complications Filipinos Face
In his consultations, Dr. Willard sees first-hand the serious medical conditions linked to obesity.
“The most common are type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disorders, and more recently, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,” he shares.
According to the Department of Health (DOH), lifestyle-related conditions like these are becoming more prevalent among Filipinos, partly due to sedentary lifestyles and changes in diet.
Small, Realistic Changes Make a Big Difference
For many people, the idea of losing weight feels overwhelming. But Dr. Willard emphasizes starting small.
“One of the best ways is to make lifestyle changes,” he advises. “Reduce sugary drinks, junk food, and overly fatty or fried food. Portion control is better than extreme diet restrictions, which are often unrealistic and unsustainable.”
He also encourages cooking at home whenever possible: “Home-cooked meals allow you to control calorie intake. And even simple, sustainable exercise, like walking 10 to 15 minutes a day, can have a great impact on your health.”
Educate Yourself and Break Down Stereotypes
At Doctor Anywhere, we recognize that obesity is not simply a matter of lifestyle. It's a complex, chronic disease that requires proper medical attention, compassion, and ongoing support. Through our partnership with Novo Nordisk, we're committed to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and empowering patients to take control of their health with confidence and clarity.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you’re unsure about your weight or overall health, Dr. Willard says it’s better to act sooner rather than later.
“Earlier detection is always better than managing symptoms. Being overweight or obese is already a risk factor. If you have a family history of chronic diseases, or increased abdominal fat, you’re at even higher risk.”
With telemedicine, getting assessed is more convenient than ever. “Here at Doctor Anywhere, you can easily have a consultation for assessment. If there are any tests or screenings needed, you can be properly advised by our physicians,” he adds.
Why Obesity Prevention Matters Now More Than Ever
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that obesity-related conditions are among the leading causes of preventable death. But the good news is that small, consistent changes in diet, activity, and lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk.
The earlier you take action, the more control you have over your health. As Dr. Willard reminds us, “It’s always better to detect risk factors early and address them before they lead to more serious conditions.”
Prevention starts with awareness, and awareness starts with a conversation. If you’re ready to take that step, download the Doctor Anywhere app today and speak to a licensed doctor online. Our general practitioners are available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with our specialists, including cardiologists, dermatologists, endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, general surgeons, nephrologists, OB-GYNs, orthopedic surgeons, or rehabilitation medicine specialists, and mental health experts, all from the comfort of your home.
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Sources:
1. Dr. Madrazo. Interviewed on 10 July 2025.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Dr. Willard Madrazo is a General Practitioner at Doctor Anywhere Philippines. He focuses on combining medical treatment with overall health, fitness, and nutrition for medical conditions. He earned his medical degree from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay and brings a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes lifestyle modifications alongside traditional treatment.
Dr. Madrazo practices what he preaches when it comes to wellness - he's passionate about fitness and regularly hits the gym. Outside of his medical practice, he's an audiophile who enjoys collecting vinyl records and unwinds by playing PC games, showing that even doctors need their downtime to recharge.