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Published on: February 1, 2018
Obesity after spinal cord injury.
1Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire VAMC (652/128), 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23249, USA. David.Gater@va.gov
Summary
Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) face heightened obesity risks. This review proposes a relevant obesity definition for SCI patients, exploring contributing factors and health implications, especially cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Public Health
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- The United States faces an obesity epidemic, with individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) at significantly higher risk.
- Current obesity definitions may underestimate risks for SCI patients, creating a false sense of security among practitioners.
- Obesity and its complications pose serious health threats to the SCI population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define obesity in a manner more applicable to individuals with SCI.
- To review the physiological basis of adipose tissue and its role in obesity.
- To discuss the interplay of genetic and environmental factors contributing to obesity in SCI.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on obesity definitions, adipose tissue physiology, and SCI-specific contributing factors.
- Analysis of the pathophysiology of obesity in the context of SCI.
- Examination of prevalence data for obesity and related comorbidities in SCI populations.
Main Results:
- A revised definition of obesity relevant to SCI is proposed.
- Heredity and environmental factors significantly influence obesity development in SCI.
- Obesity in SCI is strongly linked to increased cardiovascular disease risk and other comorbidities.
Conclusions:
- A tailored approach to defining and managing obesity is crucial for the SCI population.
- Understanding the unique pathophysiology of obesity in SCI is essential for effective prevention and treatment.
- Addressing obesity in SCI can mitigate significant health risks, particularly cardiovascular complications.
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