Research on obesity, its causes, and its treatment. Covers GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, diet, metabolic health, treatment guidelines, and obesity in children.
A new study finds that a blood test using phosphatidylethanol (PEth) can detect liver disease caused by excessive drinking, offering a more reliable alternative to self-reported measures. The test has shown strong correlation with Fibrosis 4, an indicator of liver risk, and could be included in routine blood tests.
Researchers will build a wireless bioelectronic device, named BIOSYNC, to regulate appetite through physiological satiety pathways. The device aims to produce two peptide therapeutics simultaneously with reduced side effects and better adherence to therapy.
Consuming 20-30% of daily energy at breakfast is associated with lower body mass index, smaller waist circumference, significantly lower triglyceride levels, and higher HDL cholesterol. A high-quality breakfast with proper balance of proteins, fats, fiber, and nutrients also contributes to reducing cardiovascular risk factors.
A new study published in the journal Nutres found that adopting a healthy diet can reduce the severity of chronic pain, regardless of body weight. The research, conducted by the University of South Australia, explored associations between body fat, diet, and pain and found that higher consumption of core foods was directly associated w...
The novel compound HPH-15 outperforms metformin by activating AMPK at lower doses, improving glucose uptake and reducing fat accumulation in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Additionally, it exhibits antifibrotic properties, potentially addressing liver fibrosis.
A cross-sectional study found substantial projected annual savings from weight loss among U.S. adults with obesity, particularly for Medicare and employer-based insurance. The estimated reduction in healthcare spending is substantial, offering a potential benefit for individuals with obesity.
A new study proves a suspected link between poor sleep and MASLD, a liver disorder that affects 30% of adults. Patients with MASLD experience significant sleep fragmentation, waking up 55% more often at night.
A study published at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting found that ultra-processed food intake is associated with higher amounts of intramuscular fat in thigh muscles. This increase in fat can lead to knee osteoarthritis, a condition affecting millions worldwide.
A new type of gastric balloon has been designed to help people lose weight by making them feel too full to overeat. The balloon can be inflated and deflated as needed, and animal studies have shown that it can reduce food intake by 60 percent before meals.
Researchers found that only programs promoting physical activity or eating more fruit and vegetables showed promise, while others had little effect. Tailored, multi-level and innovative approaches are required to enact positive change among truck drivers.
Researchers have discovered a specific type of body fat linked to abnormal proteins in the brain that are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. Higher levels of visceral fat were found to be associated with increased amyloid accumulation and higher PET levels of hallmark pathologic proteins.
A U-shaped association between waist circumference and all-cause mortality was found in women, while a J-shaped trend was observed in men with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that optimal waist circumference thresholds for minimizing mortality risk are 107 cm for women and 89 cm for men.
Researchers identify caveolae's role in protecting adipocytes from rupture and inflammation; this discovery opens new avenues for treating metabolic diseases like obesity. The study highlights the importance of the caveolin-1 protein in maintaining cellular integrity.
The review explores the pathophysiological relationship between OSA and MetS, revealing a complex cycle of increased cardiovascular risks. Treatment options, including CPAP, weight management, and metabolic surgery, are discussed for improving patient outcomes.
A study of 49 million patients in England found that routine screening for cardiometabolic conditions like obesity and high blood pressure dropped sharply during the pandemic. Blood pressure measurements remained lower than pre-pandemic levels as of March 2024, particularly among lower socioeconomic groups.
A cohort study found that nearly half of participants who consumed alcohol at baseline decreased their alcohol use after initiating anti-obesity medication treatment. The medications, such as naltrexone and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), may have properties that lead to reduced cravings for alcohol.
A new study led by Weill Cornell Medicine found that tirzepatide reduced the risk of diabetes in obese and prediabetic patients by more than 90% after 176 weeks. The treatment also showed significant weight loss and improved blood sugar control.
Researchers discovered a new component of the peripheral nervous system that acts by increasing energy metabolism in the body. This finding paves the way for simpler and cheaper drugs to control obesity and weight gain.
Researchers found that GLP-1 receptor agonists reduced the risk of kidney failure by 16% and worsening of kidney function by 22%. The combined reduction in risk was 19%, showing a clear benefit on kidney protection. This study expands current knowledge about this class of drugs, highlighting their role in treating patients with chronic...
A new study from Northwestern Medicine reveals a significant increase in severe maternal morbidity and birth complications in Illinois between 2016 and 2023. The findings highlight the impact of chronic health conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and mental health disorders on pregnancy outcomes.
A study of U.S. adults on anti-obesity medications found that 25% reported wasting more food since taking the drugs, while changes in diet and eating habits appeared to offset some of this waste, particularly among those who consumed more vegetables.
Christian Wolfrum will serve as NTU's chief academic officer, overseeing educational and research excellence, while strengthening talent development. He brings experience in translating research into real-world applications, having co-founded biotechnology firm Glycemicon AG.
A recent study published in the SUMMIT trial found that tirzepatide significantly reduced deaths and worsening heart failure in patients with diastolic heart failure and obesity. The drug also led to substantial weight loss and improvements in overall health and quality of life.
The study aims to confirm initial findings suggesting that increased step counts correlate with improved health indicators, such as reduced body fat and lower insulin levels. By establishing a model, the team hopes to provide healthcare professionals with a tool to recommend tailored walking goals for their patients.
A recent study published in Nutrition & Diabetes found that consuming over 45% of daily calorie intake after 5 p.m. is associated with increased glucose levels, regardless of individual weight or body fat composition. This can lead to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic inflammation.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at a younger age are more likely to develop dementia. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,200 U.S. adults and found a graded association between age at diagnosis and dementia risk.
Researchers found that alcohol-related deaths in the US surged dramatically between 1999 and 2020, with a nearly fourfold increase in those aged 25-34. The study highlights significant gender differences and regional disparities, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to combat the growing US alcohol mortality epidemic.
A study by ETH Zurich researchers has found that epigenetic markers in fat cells can lead to the yo-yo effect, where weight drops but returns. The researchers also found evidence of this mechanism in humans, suggesting that obesity can leave a lasting mark on gene expression.
Researchers from Universidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche found that bisphenol analogs BPF and BPS, marketed as safer alternatives to BPA, accumulate in biological membranes and disrupt endocrine function. The study suggests these compounds pose health risks similar to those of BPA.
Researchers studied heart failure patients in zero gravity to assess the impact on left ventricular filling pressures. They found that external constraint affects cardiac hemodynamics, leading to changes in blood pressure and potential new treatment avenues for heart failure management.
A new study reveals that an AI algorithm can accurately detect early-stage metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in patients who meet the criteria, leaving 83% undiagnosed. This highlights the need for improved screening and diagnosis methods to prevent progression to advanced liver disease.
The international SUMMIT trial found tirzepatide lowered the risk of worsening heart failure events and cardiovascular death in obese adults with preserved ejection fraction. Participants experienced improved health status, physical function, and exercise tolerance compared to placebo.
New research links ancient Jomon hunter-gatherer genetic signature to higher body mass index (BMI) among individuals in modern Japan. The study found strong support for the tripartite ancestry model, suggesting a significant influence of Jomon ancestry on BMI across populations.
Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University are investigating the complex relationship between fat tissue and colorectal cancer. The study aims to enhance knowledge of the tumour microenvironment, uncover new molecules crucial for cancer growth, and develop more effective treatments.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered that GLP-1 receptor agonists may be effective in reducing alcohol consumption. The study suggests that this type of diabetes medication could potentially treat excessive alcohol use and lead to a reduction in alcohol-related deaths.
Researchers found semaglutide and liraglutide substantially decrease AUD hospitalization risk compared to approved medications. Clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings and explore their efficacy in treating AUD.
Researchers from UAB have developed a gene therapy that reverses metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) in mice, and most obese and type 2 diabetic patients could benefit from this treatment. The therapy, based on the fibroblast growth factor 21 protein, mediates long-term reversal of liver fibrosis and MASH.
A global study found that diabetes rates have more than doubled since 1990, reaching 828 million adults worldwide. However, many low- and middle-income countries struggle to provide adequate treatment, resulting in a staggering 59% of adults with diabetes not receiving the care they need.
Scientists have discovered a new weight loss drug target that increases calorie-burning and lowers appetite without causing nausea. The discovery could lead to a new therapy for millions of people with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers discovered genetic variation in sucrose digestion affects sugar consumption and preference. Individuals with complete SI gene deficiency consumed less sucrose-rich foods than those with partial functionality.
A recent study found that vitamin D supplementation can decrease blood pressure in older adults with obesity and those with low vitamin D levels. High doses of vitamin D did not provide additional health benefits compared to the recommended daily dose.
Researchers suggest stress hormones may be primary driver of obesity-related diabetes, rather than impaired insulin signaling. The study found that excess food consumption stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, increasing stress hormones that counteract insulin's effects.
A preliminary study found that neighborhoods previously subjected to redlining had higher rates of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular risk factors due to reduced access to healthy foods. Researchers analyzed data from over 11,000 U.S. Census tracts across 38 states, controlling for population size.
A new study found that obesity-related heart disease deaths increased by 180% in the US over two decades, with significant disparities among middle-aged men, Black adults, and residents of Midwestern states. The analysis also revealed unexpected patterns, such as Vermont having the highest death rate for obesity-related CVD deaths.
Research suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, commonly prescribed for Type 2 diabetes or weight loss, may lower the risk of heart attack and recurrent stroke in adults who have had an initial stroke. The study analyzed data from over 7,000 adults with ischemic strokes between 2000 and 2022.
The American Heart Association has announced five health technology start-up companies as finalists in its 7th annual Health Tech Competition. The competition aims to drive technological advancements with the potential to transform heart and brain health patient outcomes.
Adipo Therapeutics' lead product ADPO-002NP shows promising results in increasing energy expenditure and improving insulin resistance by browning white adipose tissue. The company is now raising $8 million to move the treatment to first-in-human Phase I clinical trials.
A nationwide study in Japan reveals an increasing trend of overweight and obesity among patients with incident end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), mirroring the global obesity epidemic. Underweight individuals remain prevalent, presenting a dual challenge for public health strategies.
Researchers identify BNC2 neurons that rapidly respond to food cues and inhibit hunger, alleviating negative feelings associated with appetite. The discovery expands the classic model of hunger regulation and may provide new therapeutic targets for obesity and metabolic disorders.
The Endocrine Society's Virtual Science Writers Conference on Nov. 14 will discuss compounded versions of anti-obesity medications. The event highlights the need for FDA-approved medications to treat obesity, a pressing health concern.
Researchers identify interleukin-17A as a key regulator of fat storage, carrying implications for addressing obesity and preventing wasting. The discovery highlights the interaction between the immune system and circadian rhythms, which may hold therapeutic potential for metabolic disorders.
A recent study published in Topics in Stroke Rehabilitation found that slightly overweight stroke survivors (BMI 22.1-27.5 kg/m²) have a lower risk of sustaining disabilities compared to those with normal weight. The research suggests that a higher-than-normal BMI may be beneficial for recovering from a stroke with less disability.
A new Australian study found that night shift workers who eat meals or snacks during their shift have significantly worse glucose tolerance compared to those who fast. Insulin sensitivity is also disrupted among all participants, regardless of their eating habits.
Pennington Biomedical researchers will lead courses, presentations, and speaker panels at ObesityWeek 2024, showcasing exceptional obesity research. The center's faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and staff will engage with global potential collaborators and demonstrate progress in metabolic health.
A study found that increasing ketones through a keto diet or supplements can change menstrual frequency and intensity in pre-menopausal women. The research suggests that the presence of ketones, rather than weight loss, may regulate women's health.
A study of over 13 million hours of data found that exposure to bright nights and dark days is associated with an increased risk of death. Those exposed to high levels of light at night had a 21–34% increased risk, while those exposed to high levels of daylight had a 17–34% reduction in their risk of death.
A recent NIH study found that young people with severe obesity who underwent weight-loss surgery between ages 15 and 18 continued to see significant improvements in health outcomes, including reduced type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and abnormal cholesterol levels. The study, known as Teen LABS, suggests that bariatric surgery may offer ...
Researchers propose a comprehensive biomarker-based approach to assess cardiovascular risk by combining markers of chronic inflammation with cardiac health indicators. This approach reveals the significant impact of aging-related inflammation, or 'inflammaging,' on heart health and opens new avenues for targeted interventions.
A new multi-specialty guidance provides clarity on the usage of GLP-1 receptor agonists before elective surgery and gastrointestinal endoscopies. For most patients, these medications can be safely continued, but individual risk factors for complications should be assessed prior to surgery.
Researchers at Terasaki Institute have developed simvastatin-loaded nanoparticles to target adipose tissue inflammation, promoting fat tissue browning and weight loss. The treatment effectively inhibits obesity-related inflammation, controlled white fat production, and demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory effects.