Abstract

Obesity is a complex chronic condition that increases the risk for development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS is a cluster of bi-directionally linked metabolic dysfunctions that include central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and impaired fasting glucose. Globally over 28% of adults and 18% of adolescents are obese, with one-third of the adult population meeting the diagnostic criteria for MetS. Body mass index (BMI) is a common standard for categorizing and managing clinical obesity. There are more reliable measures for predicting obesity associated with risk. Among these measures is waist circumference, which is utilized as part of the diagnostic criteria for MetS. Additional reliable obesity measures include waist-to-hip ratio, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography, but they have limited application due to time and cost factors. Insulin resistance, alterations in cholesterol, systemic inflammation, hormonal dysregulation, visceral obesity, and hypertension are among the reversible obesity-induced MetS comorbidities that can be mitigated, reduced, or completely reversed with a sustained total body weight loss of 5–10%. According to clinical guidelines, a combination of dietary modifications, increased physical activity, and cognitive behavioral therapy are the primary recommendations for weight loss management. Additional weight loss benefit is potential with adjunct pharmacological therapies that include GLP-1 receptor agonist, oral anorexiants, phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, and orlistat. In addition, surgical interventions are an effective adjunct therapy for patients with health complications secondary to morbid obesity. A total body weight loss of 5–10% has the potential to reduce all MetS related comorbidities.

Keywords

obesity, metabolic syndrome, prevention, weight loss, management, BMI