Different Types of Obesity: Causes, Classifications, and Effective Treatments

The fact that not every weight loss method or diet works equally for everyone indicates that there are different types of obesity. If the nature of obesity were the same for all individuals, one specific diet would help everyone lose weight equally. This article explains the main types of obesity, why identifying the cause matters, and how this knowledge can lead to more effective and faster treatment.

A Quick Overview of Obesity Classifications

Category	Types	Key Features
Based on Fat Distribution	1. Central (Abdominal) Obesity 2. Peripheral (Hip and Thigh) Obesity 3. Mixed Obesity	Central obesity is the most dangerous type. Peripheral obesity is more common in women.
Based on Underlying Cause	1. Primary (Non-Disease Related) Obesity 2. Secondary (Disease-Related) Obesity 3. Genetic Obesity	Secondary obesity requires treating the root cause. Genetic obesity is often more resistant to treatment.
Based on Age of Onset	1. Childhood Obesity 2. Adult-Onset Obesity 3. Geriatric Obesity	Childhood obesity increases the number of fat cells. Obesity in older adults is mainly due to lower metabolism.

Key Points to Remember

• Abdominal obesity is strongly associated with heart disease and diabetes.
• Secondary obesity may result from hormonal disorders or medication use.
• Childhood obesity often requires lifestyle changes for the entire family.
• Scientists still haven’t reached a universal consensus on how many types of obesity actually exist.

How Many Types of Obesity Are There?

To be honest, experts still disagree on the exact number of types of obesity. However, it is widely accepted that there’s more than just one type. While it’s difficult to identify all types using BMI alone, obesity can at least be categorized or classified into three main groups:

1. Based on fat distribution in the body
2. Based on related diseases or conditions
3. Based on the number of fat cells

Types of Obesity Based on Fat Distribution

Depending on where fat accumulates the most, obesity can be categorized into three types:

• Peripheral Obesity: Fat is mainly stored around the hips and thighs.
• Central Obesity: Fat accumulates around the abdomen and waist area.
• Mixed Obesity: Fat is distributed both in the abdominal area and the lower body.

Central obesity is considered the most dangerous because vital organs are located within the abdominal cavity.

Types of Obesity Based on Underlying Medical Conditions

Another classification focuses on whether obesity is linked to a medical disorder or not:

• Disease-Related Obesity: Conditions such as hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and insulin resistance can lead to excessive weight gain.
• Non-Disease-Related Obesity: This occurs when calorie intake consistently exceeds energy expenditure, with no medical condition involved.

Types of Obesity Based on Number of Fat Cells

The number and activity of fat cells in the body can also determine obesity type:

• Childhood Obesity: The number of fat cells increases during early development.
• Adult-Onset Obesity: The size and function of fat cells grow, especially during middle age.

Some Experts Believe There Are 59 Types of Obesity

Dr. Lee Kaplan, Director of the Obesity, Metabolism, and Nutrition Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital, reported in The New York Times (2016) that up to 59 different types of obesity have been identified.
He explained that genetic factors play a major role — for instance, at least 25 genes directly affect obesity, with the FTO gene being one of the most influential.

Other Studies Suggest at Least Six Types of Obesity

A 2015 study published in the American Journal of Public Health identified six main groups of obese individuals after analyzing over 27,000 participants. The study found:

1. Men with alcohol dependency
2. Young, healthy women (possibly with genetic obesity)
3. Healthy, affluent older adults
4. Older adults with physical illnesses but good mental health
5. Middle-aged, anxious individuals
6. Individuals with poor overall health

Researchers used this data to tailor obesity treatment strategies based on each group’s unique cause and characteristics.

Another Study Suggests Four Main Types of Obesity

At Brown University, a large-scale study found four primary obesity patterns among people with a BMI over 30:

1. Obese individuals with diabetes: High blood sugar, low “good” cholesterol, and almost all participants diagnosed with diabetes.
2. Obese individuals with eating disorders: Overeating behavior, loss of appetite control, and emotional eating.
3. Obese individuals with no clear cause: No specific behavioral or medical cause identified.
4. Obese individuals since childhood: High BMI since early life, often reaching BMI 58 before bariatric surgery.

How to Treat Each Type of Obesity

As highlighted throughout this article, identifying the type of obesity is essential for effective treatment. Without understanding the root cause, losing weight can be extremely challenging.
A comprehensive approach should include:

• A personalized, balanced diet plan
• Regular physical activity
• Adequate sleep
• Addressing underlying medical conditions
• Maintaining motivation and mental health
• Consulting a qualified nutritionist or bariatric specialist

When to Consider Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery can be an effective treatment for certain types of obesity, particularly in the following cases:

• BMI above 40
• BMI above 35 with obesity-related conditions
• Failed attempts at medical or dietary weight loss
• Life-threatening complications due to obesity

Types of Weight Loss Surgeries

For individuals with severe obesity, the following surgical options can offer significant and sustainable weight reduction:

• Gastric Sleeve Surgery
• Gastric Bypass Surgery
• Mini Gastric Bypass
• Biliopancreatic Diversion
• Gastric Banding
• Stomach Plication

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Obesity