Articles tagged with Obesity
Researchers discovered that mice lacking two related fatty acid binding proteins exhibit striking changes in their lipid profiles and strong resistance to diet-induced obesity and other conditions. The proteins appear to play a crucial role in integrating metabolic and inflammatory responses underlying metabolic syndrome.
Researchers genetically altered mice to resist obesity but still develop early signs of diabetes, revealing the complex network of factors leading from obesity to diabetes. By applying a drug treatment, they increased insulin sensitivity, a primary goal of diabetes treatment.
Researchers found that men and women who drank moderately but frequently had the lowest BMI scores, while infrequent heavy drinkers had the highest BMIs. The study suggests that drinking frequency and quantity can be important risk factors for obesity.
A study by the University of Cincinnati found that morbidly obese adults incur significantly higher medical expenditures, with excess costs attributed to increased visits to doctors, hospital care, and prescription drugs. The researchers estimate that $56 billion in US healthcare expenditures in 2000 were linked to excess body weight, ...
The study reveals that obese individuals have low non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), a biological need to sit more, which is linked to brain chemical differences. Encouraging NEAT-seeking behaviors can help obese patients overcome this defect and achieve weight loss.
Researchers found that diabetic patients are more likely to develop bacteremia caused by urinary tract infections, leading to a higher risk of death. The study suggests that diabetics should seek medical care promptly if they experience signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection or bacteremia/sepsis.
A large-scale study found that excess body size significantly increases the risk of developing kidney stones, with men weighing over 220 pounds facing a 44% higher risk. Weight gain since age 21 also contributes to this increased risk, particularly in older and younger women.
A study found that obesity can make prostate cancer screenings less accurate, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer treatment outcomes. The research suggests that physicians should consider adjusting PSA values when screening for prostate cancer in overweight or obese men.
A study by Saint Louis University found that genetic factors account for over 50% of adult weight change, while environmental factors contribute to the remaining 50%. This suggests that individuals with a genetic predisposition to obesity face a more significant challenge in losing weight.
A gene that causes severe fat deficiency is also found to promote obesity in mice, according to new research. The protein affects body weight by altering fat storage and metabolism, with excess levels leading to increased body weight and changes in energy expenditure.
Researchers at UCLA and VA discovered a link between lipin levels and body weight, finding that excess lipin can lead to accelerated weight gain in mice. Variations in lipin levels may play a role in why some people are more prone to weight gain than others.
Research found that total sleep time decreased as body mass index increased, except in severely obese individuals. Sleeping less than 16 minutes per day was associated with a lower BMI.
Researchers found that all four popular diets resulted in modest weight loss at 1 year, but only 25% of participants sustained weight loss over 5%, highlighting the importance of dietary adherence. The study challenges the notion that one diet is best for everyone and suggests a 'nutrigenomic' approach may be necessary.
A US study found a strong link between frequent fast-food consumption and weight gain, as well as increased insulin resistance in young black and white adults. The study of over 3000 participants showed that those who ate at fast food restaurants more frequently gained more weight and developed insulin resistance.
A study by Victoria Holt found that overweight and obese women on oral contraceptives have a significantly higher risk of getting pregnant due to body-mass index. The study suggests that an additional two to four women will get pregnant per year among those who are overweight or obese.
A recent study published in the Journal of American Public Health found that African-Americans with higher body mass index (BMI) did not have significantly higher healthcare spending compared to those with lower BMIs. In contrast, white Americans and people under 35 with higher BMI had increased healthcare costs.
Researchers found that apocynin reduced ROS production in fat cells, restored adipocytokine production, and improved diabetes. Accumulated fatty tissue is a major source of ROS in obesity, acting as an early trigger of metabolic syndrome.
A study found that immigrants to the US are at higher risk of obesity due to acculturation and limited access to healthcare. As they spend more time in the country, their body mass index increases, suggesting a threshold effect.
The study found that immigrants living in the US for over 15 years have a higher BMI and obesity rate compared to those living less than 1 year. Early clinician intervention on diet and physical activity may help prevent weight gain and obesity-related chronic illnesses among immigrant populations.
A study by Northwestern University researchers found that average annual and cumulative Medicare charges are significantly higher for obese individuals, with severe obesity resulting in costs of up to $175,000. The study highlights the urgent need for preventive measures to address obesity and reduce healthcare costs among older adults.
A study of over 9,600 participants found that those who were severely obese in young adulthood had significantly higher Medicare charges at age 65 compared to non-overweight peers. The average annual Medicare charges for severely obese individuals were $6,192 more than for non-overweight men and $5,618 more than for non-overweight women.
A study analyzing US children's weight trends found increasing overweight prevalence (28 states >10% in 2000) while underweight decreased, indicating a national problem. The researchers call for expanded prevention and intervention efforts to reverse the trend.
Research subjects who slept only four hours a night experienced an 18% decrease in leptin and a 28% increase in ghrelin, leading to a 24% increase in appetite. The study also found that sleep-deprived individuals tend to crave more sugary and salty foods.
A recent Stanford University School of Medicine study found a significant link between sleep loss and hormonal changes that contribute to obesity. Ghrelin and leptin hormone levels were consistently increased and decreased with reduced sleep duration, respectively.
A study found that short sleep duration is associated with reduced leptin levels, elevated ghrelin levels, and increased BMI in a large cohort of participants. This hormonal imbalance may contribute to the development of obesity in societies where excess calories are easily accessible.
Research found that individuals who slept for shorter durations had reduced leptin and elevated ghrelin, leading to increased feelings of hunger. This may contribute to the rising obesity pandemic, emphasizing the importance of good sleep in fighting weight-related issues.
Research found that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid from fish oils, stimulates the secretion of leptin in primary cell cultures of fat from rats. This effect may be beneficial for maintaining body weight during obesity treatment and improving associated pathologies.
A study found that obesity significantly impacts imaging quality and accuracy, particularly for abdominal ultrasound, chest x-ray, and CT scans. The direct cost of incomplete exams has tripled over 15 years, highlighting the need for equipment design changes and technological advancements.
A new study links resistin to inflammation, insulin resistance, and obesity. Resistin levels increase in human macrophages treated with endotoxin or cytokines, suggesting a role in promoting diabetes through insulin resistance.
A recent study found that obesity is a modifiable risk factor for atrial fibrillation, with obese individuals having a significantly higher risk of developing the condition. The study examined data from the Framingham Heart Study and found that age-adjusted incidence rates for AF increased across BMI categories in men and women.
Long-term obesity is associated with a significant loss of brain tissue, particularly in the temporal lobe, increasing dementia risk. The study found that women with higher BMI experienced greater atrophy and increased dementia risk over time.
A new study reveals that obesity is tied to an increased risk for numerous health conditions, including life-threatening diseases like heart failure and serious illnesses like high blood pressure. The research also found a correlation between excess weight and various health complaints that reduce quality of life.
Despite progress, older Americans face disparities in education, wealth, healthcare access, and risk factors for chronic diseases. The report highlights the need to address these gaps to ensure better quality of life for aging populations.
Researchers from Penn State found that eating more water-rich foods and choosing reduced-fat options can lead to significant weight loss. In two studies, obese women who followed low-energy-density diets lost an average of 21 pounds compared to those on restricted fat intake diets.
Research suggests that abdominal fat is more closely associated with disability than overall body fat, even among normal-weight individuals. The study, which followed over 16,000 participants for nine years, found that high levels of abdominal fat increased the risk of difficulty performing daily tasks.
A 12-month study found that people and dogs lost an average of 11 pounds and 12 pounds respectively, with the combined dog/owner group showing higher participation rates. The program improved quality of life through increased exercise and strengthened human-animal bonds.
A new study at the University of Pittsburgh found that gastric bypass is a promising treatment option for patients with GERD and obesity who have previously undergone antireflux surgery. The procedure showed significant improvements in GERD symptoms and weight loss, improving or resolving up to 70% of associated medical conditions.
Researchers found that reducing food energy density by 30% led to a 23% decrease in daily calorie intake, while reducing portion size by 25% resulted in a 12% decrease. Women experienced no significant differences in hunger or fullness ratings despite these changes.
A study published in 2004 found that obese individuals experience lower sexual quality of life, with women reporting more difficulties than men. The research suggests that losing weight and increasing physical activity can help restore sexual function for those with obesity-related problems.
Researchers found that testosterone therapy improves blood flow to the heart muscle in men with CAD, while behavioral factors such as exercise rates and obesity trends are closely monitored. Additionally, studies suggest 'flight socks' can reduce deep-vein leg clots during long air travel, offering a promising solution for at-risk indi...
Researchers discovered that Shp-2, a tyrosine phosphatase, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and increasing sensitivity to leptin. The study found that mice with early-onset obesity had increased levels of leptin, insulin, glucose, and triglycerides.
Research by the American Heart Association found that overweight men spent $18.41 per month on coronary heart disease-related prescriptions, compared to $9.89 for normal-weight men. The study also showed a significant increase in costs for obese men due to various health issues such as high blood pressure and sleep apnea.
A recent study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention journal found that obesity is associated with a higher risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in older women. The study followed over 37,000 Iowa women for 14 years and found that those who were overweight or obese had a 90% increased risk of developing AML compar...
The NIH is funding a five-year study to assess the impact of local design and transportation changes on physical activity and obesity. The goal is to determine if simple changes in the built environment can enhance physical activity and reduce obesity for residents.
Researchers have found that fat buildup in the heart muscle, called lipotoxicity, is associated with metabolic irregularities and insulin resistance in obese and diabetic patients. Gene expression and protein findings provide potential long-term targets for treating heart failure, which affects 5 million US patients annually.
The study found that almost half of patients with pre-existing high blood pressure were off medications after surgery, while 92% of those with diabetes were no longer taking oral medications. Additionally, degenerative joint disease improved significantly in patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery.
Studies found that morbidly obese patients experience high rates of GERD symptoms, including heartburn and acid regurgitation. Additionally, a systematic review revealed a significant dose-dependent association between body mass index and risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
A study of 806 women with early stage breast cancer found that regular physical activity significantly reduced the risk of weight gain and improved breast cancer prognosis. Physical activity was assessed during an in-person interview as part of the Health, Eating, Activity and Lifestyle (HEAL) study.
Obese individuals have significantly higher one-year health care costs compared to nonobese counterparts. Prescription drugs and hospitalizations are key drivers of these increased costs. The study found obese patients had a median total healthcare cost of $585.44, while nonobese patients averaged $333.24.
A study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that nearly 60% of American adults have elevated blood pressure, with prevalence increasing among older adults, those with lower education levels and obesity. Awareness and management of hypertension remain low, particularly among Mexican-Americans.
A study found that surgical weight loss programs significantly improved metabolic syndrome symptoms, with a 95.6% resolution rate for patients with the condition. Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery resulted in greater weight loss and better blood lipid profiles compared to vertical banded gastroplasty.
The melanocortin-4 receptor's (MC4R) basal activity is essential for maintaining energy balance. The N-terminal domain of the MC4R protein is responsible for this activity. Deletion of this domain impairs the receptor's ability to regulate energy homeostasis.
Researchers identify genetic mutations in the N-terminal domain of the MC4R protein that contribute to obesity, providing a promising new strategy for treating the condition. The study suggests that drugs targeting sustained low-level MC4R activity may be effective in regulating appetite.
A controlled study found that bariatric surgery is associated with an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy (PN), a condition causing pain and weakness. The study highlights the importance of nutritional counseling and follow-up care to prevent PN complications, which are largely preventable.
A recent study examining obese postmenopausal women found that visceral fat storage was the main determinant of metabolic syndrome and increased cardiovascular disease risk. High-intensity exercise and general weight reduction were identified as potential strategies to reduce this risk.
Researchers found that lean mass, intra-abdominal fat, and inflammation biomarker sTNFR1 are higher in women with metabolic syndrome, independently related to its severity. Analysis of these factors can help doctors identify postmenopausal women at increased risk for diabetes and heart disease.
A recent study published in Obesity Research found that portion control was the most effective behavior change for inducing significant weight loss among obese patients. According to lead researcher Everett E. Logue, Ph.D., portion control resulted in a 38% success rate, compared to 33% for those who did not practice portion control.
The American Academy of Family Physicians presents award-winning research papers on key medical topics such as prenatal care, diabetes management, and pain assessment. Researchers will be available to discuss their findings between presentations.
A review of 136 studies found bariatric surgery to be effective in achieving significant weight loss, with an average percentage of excess weight loss of 61.2%. The procedure also showed promise in resolving or improving four obesity-related disorders: diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea.
A study published by Fox Chase Cancer Center found that obese women with early-stage breast cancer have a higher risk of death compared to their normal-weight peers. The research analyzed data from 2,010 patients and showed that obese women experienced a significantly lower overall survival rate and increased distant metastasis.