Obesity: A Profoundly Under Recognized Chronic Disease; And Its Impacts on Cardiovascular Disease

Obesity is a treatable chronic disease of high prevalence in the U.S. It has various direct and indirect adverse health effects in terms of morbidity and mortality. It not only increases cardiovascular mortality but is also associated with an increased risk of multiple cancers. However, unlike other chronic diseases, obesity diagnosis often misses patients' and providers' attention and historically has been undertreated. This article is written to highlight the impact of obesity on health with special reference to cardiovascular disease, stimulate the quest among the masses and primary care providers for the diagnosis and treatment of obesity, its complications, and benefits obtained from its treatment.