Obesity

Question 1

Define obesity/

Answer 1

A BMI > 30 kg/m2Can also be defined using waist circumference

Men

• Low Risk = < 94 cm
• Very High Risk = > 102 cm

Women

• Low Risk = < 80 cm
• Very High Risk = > 88 cm

Question 2

outline the aetiology/ risk factors for obesity?

Answer 2

There are genetic factors that affect the risk of become obese

There are a few monogenic forms of obesity (e.g. leptin deficiency, Prader-Willi syndrome)

Common obesity is caused by energy intake > energy usage

Question 3

summarise the epidemiology of obesity?

Answer 3

24% of men and 25% of women are obese

Question 4

what are the presenting symptoms and signs of obesity?

Answer 4

Noticing you’re fat

Routine health check

Symptoms of complications (e.g. T2DM, coronary heart disease, obstructive sleep apnoea)

High body weight, BMI and waist circumference

Question 5

what are the appropriate investigations for obesity?

Answer 5

Measure serum lipids

Measure HbA1c

Hormone profile (check for hormonal cause of obesity)

TFTs - hypothyroidism can cause obesity

Other investigations depending on comorbidities