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Fundus Photography as a Convenient Tool to Study Microvascular Responses to Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Epidemiological Studies
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[Obesity: risk factor or primary disease?]
Constanza Aguilera1, Tomás Labbé1, Javiera Busquets1
1Departamento de Enfermedades No Transmisibles, División de Prevención y Control de Enfermedades, Ministerio de Salud, Santiago, Chile.
Revista Medica De Chile
|July 26, 2019
Summary
Obesity is a global health issue, recognized as a disease due to its metabolic and hormonal features. Effective management, focusing on prevention and lifestyle changes, is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing mortality.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Obesity prevalence has tripled globally between 1975 and 2016.
- Chile reported a 34.4% obesity prevalence in 2016-2017.
- Obesity is recognized as a disease by major health organizations due to its complex metabolic and hormonal characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the classification of obesity as a disease.
- To highlight key risk factors including diet and physical activity.
- To emphasize the importance of preventive and management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on obesity classification and risk factors.
- Analysis of global and national health survey data.
- Discussion of transdisciplinary and individual management approaches.
Main Results:
- Obesity is characterized by metabolic and hormonal dysregulation.
- Ultra-processed food consumption and sedentariness are primary environmental risk factors.
- Effective management can improve quality of life and reduce comorbidities.
Conclusions:
- Obesity is a complex disease requiring a transdisciplinary approach.
- Preventive measures and lifestyle interventions are fundamental.
- Adequate management significantly impacts public health and reduces mortality risk.
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