Related co-morbidities

Obesity is associated with a wide range of comorbidities, additional health conditions that often occur alongside obesity and can have a significant impact on an individual’s health and well-being. These comorbidities may affect various body systems and contribute to the increased morbidity and mortality associated with obesity.

Some of the comorbidities associated with obesity are shown in the above image, but many others may exist that have not yet been studied. Some of the most studied co-morbidities are outlined below:

1. Type 2 Diabetes:

Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes. The excess fat, particularly abdominal fat (or visceral fat), can lead to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism.

2. Cardiovascular Disease:

Obesity is closely linked to heart diseases, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, and heart failure. Excess body fat contributes to atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.

3. Hypertension:

Obesity is a major risk factor for high blood pressure. The exact mechanisms linking obesity and hypertension are complex but include increased blood volume and insulin resistance.

4. Sleep Apnea:

Obesity is a major risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. Excess fat in the neck and throat can obstruct the airway.

5. Cancer:

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, endometrial, oesophageal, kidney, ovarian, pancreatic and prostate cancer.

6. Increased risk of age related diseases

Obesity has also been associated with a higher risk of other diseases such as Dementia. While the relationship between obesity and dementia is complex, it highlights the importance of lifestyle factors, including maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing chronic conditions, in reducing the risk of both obesity and dementia. Further research is needed to fully understand the intricate connections between these two conditions and develop effective strategies for prevention and intervention.

The high number of co-morbidities associated with increased body fat place a sense of urgency on all medical practitioners to intervene where a patient needs support to manage their weight. It may be that the earlier an individual can return to a healthy weight the higher the likelihood of maintaining a longer healthspan and avoiding chronic and age related disease.

References:

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11. Ma Y, Ajnakina O, Steptoe A, Cadar D. Higher risk of dementia in English older individuals who are overweight or obese. Int J Epidemiol. 2020 Aug 1;49(4):1353-1365. doi: 10.1093/ije/dyaa099. PMID: 32575116; PMCID: PMC7660153. Available here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32575116/