Obesity and preclinical changes of cardiac geometry and function

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Metabolic Disorders
• Public Health

Background:

• Rising prevalence of overweight and obesity in Korea linked to Westernized lifestyles.
• Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
• Emerging evidence indicates obesity directly impacts cardiac structure and function, beyond atherosclerotic effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the influence of obesity on cardiac structural and functional alterations.
• To examine evidence from human and animal studies regarding obesity's cardiac effects.
• To discuss associated physical, neurohormonal, and metabolic factors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of human and animal studies.
• Analysis of research on obesity-related cardiovascular changes.
• Synthesis of data on influencing factors.

Main Results:

• Obesity directly alters heart structure and function.
• Cardiovascular changes in obesity are not solely due to atherosclerosis.
• Physical, neurohormonal, and metabolic factors contribute to cardiac alterations in obesity.

Conclusions:

• Obesity significantly impacts cardiac health, causing structural and functional changes.
• Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing obesity-related cardiovascular risks.
• Further research into influencing factors can inform targeted interventions.