Obesity and cardiovascular disease: pathophysiology, evaluation, and effect of weight loss

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Metabolic Disorders

Background:

• Obesity is a global epidemic affecting both children and adults.
• It is associated with numerous co-morbidities including cardiovascular diseases (CVD), type 2 diabetes, hypertension, certain cancers, and sleep apnea.
• Obesity is an independent risk factor for CVD and is linked to reduced life expectancy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the impact of obesity on cardiovascular health.
• To highlight the cardiac structural and functional alterations associated with excess adipose tissue accumulation.
• To underscore the link between obesity and various cardiac complications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on obesity and cardiovascular health.
• Analysis of the physiological adaptations in cardiac structure and function due to obesity.
• Examination of epidemiological data linking obesity to cardiovascular outcomes.

Main Results:

• Obesity leads to significant adaptations/alterations in cardiac structure and function.
• Overweight and obesity are associated with increased risks of coronary heart disease, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death.
• Cardiovascular risks associated with obesity are evident even in childhood.

Conclusions:

• Obesity poses a substantial threat to cardiovascular health across all age groups.
• Excess adipose tissue accumulation directly impacts the cardiovascular system, leading to severe complications.
• Addressing the global obesity epidemic is crucial for reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases.