Obesity: A preventable, treatable, but relapsing disease

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Disorders
• Public Health

Background:

• Obesity prevalence exceeds 60% in the US and 40% in Italy, incurring significant economic costs.
• Excess weight, including visceral fat, leads to joint stress, metabolic disorders, organ dysfunction, and increased mortality.
• Even metabolically healthy obese individuals face increased risks if the condition is underestimated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the criteria for defining primary obesity as a disease.
• To emphasize the need for improved diagnostic methods beyond body mass index.
• To discuss the impact of societal factors and potential interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific, social, and political interest in obesity.
• Analysis of obesity prevalence, costs, and health consequences.
• Discussion of diagnostic criteria, treatment challenges, and influencing factors.

Main Results:

• Obesity meets criteria for disease recognition, impacting public health and healthcare economics.
• Body composition is a more accurate diagnostic tool than body mass index.
• Timely nutritional interventions and improved diagnosis are crucial for obesity reversibility.

Conclusions:

• Recognizing obesity as a disease shifts focus to the condition, improving prevention and treatment adherence.
• Addressing obesity as a disease can lead to significant healthcare cost and complication savings.
• Understanding factors like gut microbiota and food addiction is vital for comprehensive obesity management.