Obesity

Question 1

Describe the prevalence levels of obesity in the UK

Answer 1

• 3 fold increase over the last 2 decades
• Scotland has one of the highest obesity levels in the world
• 66% overweight in 2019
• 29% obese

Question 2

Describe the prevalence levels of obesity in the world

Answer 2

• rates show steady increase till 2030

- US, Meixco and England particularly affected

Question 3

Define obesity

Answer 3

excess adiposity

Question 4

How do we measure obesity in adults?

Answer 4

BMI:
= weight (kg)/ height (m)^2
- age and gender dependent
- overweight is >25

Waist circumference:

• indicator of intra-abdominal or visceral fat
• males >94cm = increased risk of health problems
• females >80cm = increased risk

Question 5

What are some co-morbidities of obesity?

Answer 5

• stroke
• heart disease
• cancer
• diabetes
• pancreatitis
• muscular problems
• abnormal periods in females
• gout common in men
• psychological problems

Question 6

How is obesity measured in children?

Answer 6

• reference values
• 85th centile = risk of overweight
• 95th centile = risk of obesity
• vary worldwide which makes it difficult to compare and measure prevalence

Question 7

What are the components of energy balance and the risk factors?

Answer 7

Components:

• energy consumed
• energy expended

Risk Factors:

• diet (high calorie, low nutrient)
• physical inactivity
• age
• socioeconomic status
• medical conditions
• medication
• family history/genetic susceptibility

Question 8

What are the modifiable factors in obesity?

Answer 8

• diet

- physical inactivity (significant for childhood obesity)

Question 9

How can genetics affect obesity?

Answer 9

Monogenic (rare):

• single gene disorders
• eg. LEP, LEPR

Polygenic:
- complex interactions between genes and environment

Question 10

What is the WHOs Global strategy on diet and physical activity?

Answer 10

1. Reduce risk factors for chronic diseases that stem from diet and physical activity
2. Increase awareness and understanding of the influences of diet and physical activity on health and positive impact of preventative measures
3. Develop policies and action plans to improve diets and increase physical activity
4. Monitor science and promote research on diet and physical activity

Question 11

What are the WHOs dietary recommendations?

Answer 11

• breastfeeding
• avoiding sugars and starches
• regulate food intake
• promote active lifestyle
• promote intake of fruit and vegetables
• limit intake of fats and consume unsaturated fats rather than saturated
• limit salt intake