[Obesity and related diseases in a Lebanese medical center]

Obesity is actually a pandemic disease by itself, especially by its numerous associated complications. Obesity is considered among the most important cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world. Its prevalence is variable between countries, but could be estimated to be around 20%. Few data concerning obesity is available in Lebanon. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of obesity in Lebanese patients consulting a primary care medical center in Beirut, as well as to study the links between obesity and other associated diseases.

Three hundred and thirteen patients, aged 13 years and above, consulting for the first time between 2000 and 2001 (one-year period), have been included in the study. Obesity is defined by a body mass index (BMI)> or =30 kg/m(2), and overweight is defined by a BMI between 25 and 29.9 kg/m(2).

Among the 313 patients included, 22.1% were overweight, and 18% obese. The percentage of obesity is significantly higher in patients aged 40 years and above. No difference between men and women was observed. Obesity was significantly related to high blood pressure, diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL and ischemic coronaropathy.

Obesity and its associated diseases are frequently encountered problems in Lebanon, as it is in the rest of the world. Wider national studies are needed to define more accurately the magnitude of the problem, in order to apply efficient prevention strategies.