The following are the most important diseases or complications that may be contributed to by underweight:
Respiratory system (J00-J99)
- Pneumonia (pneumonia)
Blood, blood-forming organs – immune system (D50-D90).
- Immunodeficiency – weakness of the immune defenses.
Skin and subcutaneous (L00-L99)
- Alopecia (hair loss)
- Decubitus (bedsore, pressure ulcer)
- Dry, partly scaly skin
- Wound healing disorders
Cardiovascular system (I00-I99)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (M00-M99).
- Muscle weakness
- Osteoporosis
- Proximal femur fractures (fracture of the femur and neck of femur, respectively) – a BMI < 20 doubles the risk of proximal femur fractures in both men and women compared to higher BMI levels
Genitourinary system (kidneys, urinary tract – reproductive organs) (N00-N99).
- Reproductive disorders – male and female
- Hormonal disorders – for example, secondary amenorrhea (no menstrual bleeding for more than three months).
- Cycle disorders
Further
- Increased risk of surgery and anesthesia.
- Increased risk of accidents
- Micronutrient deficiencies (vital substances)
- Problems in the partnership, e.g. due to self-esteem reduction
