DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Metabolic Disorder

Obesity (Class II-III)

MODERATE

Complex chronic disease characterized by excessive adipose tissue accumulation (BMI >=35). Associated with metabolic dysfunction, inflammation, and increased morbidity/mortality. Now recognized as relapsing-remitting disease requiring long-term management.

Global Affected

650.0M

Countries

111

Symptoms

Excess body fat
Shortness of breath
Joint pain
Back pain
Fatigue
Sleep apnea
Skin problems (intertrigo)
Psychological distress
Reduced mobility
Heat intolerance

Treatment Options

Lifestyle modification
Anti-obesity medications (GLP-1 RAs, phentermine/topiramate, naltrexone/bupropion)
Metabolic/bariatric surgery (RYGB, sleeve gastrectomy)
Intragastric balloons
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty
Very low-calorie diets
Behavioral therapy

Risk Factors

1Genetics (40-70% heritability)
2Obesogenic environment
3High-calorie diet
4Sedentary lifestyle
5Sleep deprivation
6Stress
7Certain medications (antipsychotics, steroids)
8Gut microbiome composition
9Socioeconomic factors

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1BMI calculation
  • 2Waist circumference
  • 3Body composition analysis
  • 4Metabolic panel
  • 5Sleep study (if sleep apnea suspected)
  • 6Echocardiogram
  • 7Psychological evaluation

Prognosis

Reduces life expectancy by 6-7 years. Increases risk: T2DM x7, hypertension x3, CAD x2, stroke x2, cancer x1.5, osteoarthritis, NAFLD. Weight loss of 5-10% improves metabolic health.

Prevention

  • Healthy diet
  • Regular physical activity
  • Sleep hygiene
  • Stress management
  • Limiting processed foods
  • Sugar-sweetened beverage reduction
  • Early intervention in childhood
  • Environmental/policy changes

Research Status

GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, tirzepatide) revolutionizing treatment with 15-22% weight loss. Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists superior. Triple agonists (retatrutide) in trials. Metabolic/bariatric surgery most effective. Setmelanotide for genetic obesity. Gut microbiome modulation research.

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
  • https://www.newbornscreening.info

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.