Metabolic complications of obesity

Obesity is a risk factor for several metabolic complications, with insulin resistance being the common denominator in these conditions. Impaired blood glucose regulation is one of the most important of these complications, and includes type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), prediabetes, and gestational diabetes. Metabolic syndrome describes a constellation of features including insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and abdominal obesity. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition characterized by ovulatory dysfunction and clinical evidence of hyperandrogenism. As many of these complications can go unnoticed for years without overt clinical complications, awareness of both patients and health care professionals is essential such that appropriate screening and diagnostic strategies can be undertaken. Aggressive management strategies of diabetic and prediabetic states are essential for prevention of complications over time. Strategies for identification of vascular risk factors must be implemented such that appropriate risk reduction strategies can be undertaken to minimize the risk of development of cardiovascular complications.