Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
- Clinical Presentations and Diagnosis
- Diabetes and other Metabolic Disorders
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
- Inborn Errors of Metabolism
- Obesity-Related Metabolic Disorders
- Biomarkers in Metabolic Disorders
- Imaging Techniques in Metabolic Disorders
- Genetic and Molecular Diagnostics
- Gut Microbiome Analysis
Obesity is a complex, multifactorial condition characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat that poses a significant threat to health. It is typically defined by a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, though other factors like waist circumference and body composition are also used to assess obesity. The rise in global obesity rates over the past few decades is often attributed to lifestyle changes, including high-calorie diets, physical inactivity, and sedentary behaviors, compounded by genetic and environmental factors. Obesity is more than just a cosmetic concern; it is a medical problem linked to numerous chronic conditions. Excess adipose tissue disrupts the body’s metabolic balance, causing insulin resistance, increased inflammation, and hormonal imbalances. These disruptions significantly elevate the risk of developing metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, obesity has been associated with certain types of cancer, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, and psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety, further amplifying its public health burden.
Metabolic disorders, often interconnected with obesity, encompass a range of conditions that disrupt normal metabolic processes. Central to these disorders is metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions including high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels, elevated blood pressure, and excess abdominal fat. This syndrome significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The interplay between obesity and metabolic disorders is profound; for instance, visceral fat accumulation in obese individuals promotes chronic low-grade inflammation, which interferes with insulin signaling and leads to insulin resistance—a precursor to diabetes. Similarly, elevated free fatty acids from adipose tissue impair lipid metabolism, causing dyslipidemia. While lifestyle modifications such as healthy eating and regular physical activity are pivotal in managing both obesity and metabolic disorders, the challenges in maintaining these changes necessitate multidimensional interventions. Pharmacological treatments, bariatric surgery, and public health policies targeting environmental and social determinants are often required for effective prevention and management. Addressing obesity and metabolic disorders holistically is critical to curbing their societal and economic impacts.
