Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

Flashcards covering key concepts related to obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Obesity

A condition characterized by excessive body fat, specifically defined as being 30% or more over ideal weight.

Metabolic Syndrome

A cluster of conditions that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

CDC Statistics

According to the CDC, 32% of adult men and 35% of adult women in the U.S. are considered obese.

Overweight

Defined as being 20% or more over ideal body weight.

Morbid Obesity

A classification of obesity defined as being 40% or more over ideal body weight.

Adipose Cells

Cells that store fat and can increase in number or size (hypertrophy) to increase fat mass.

Subcutaneous Fat

A type of fat stored beneath the skin, associated with lower health risks.

Visceral Fat

Fat stored around the organs, higher health risks associated.

Adipokines

Chemical messengers produced by adipocytes that affect metabolism and inflammation.

Adiponectin

A 'good' adipokine that enhances insulin sensitivity and has anti-inflammatory effects.

Leptin

A hormone that signals satiety to the brain but may lead to resistance in obese individuals.

Resistin

A 'bad' adipokine that causes insulin resistance and increases triglyceride levels.

Angiotensinogen (AGT)

A 'bad' adipokine that leads to increased vascular tone and hypertension.

Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor (PAI)

Stops the action of tissue plasminogen activator, increasing clot formation risk.

Free Fatty Acids (FFA)

Elevated levels associated with obesity and contribute to physiological dysfunction.

Ghrelin

A peptide secreted by the stomach that stimulates hunger and regulates food intake.

Risk Factors for Obesity

Include excess calorie intake, sedentary lifestyle, poverty, culture, genetics, and others.

Apple-shaped obesity

A type of body fat distribution linked to higher cardiovascular disease risk.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A measure calculated from height and weight to categorize individuals as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.

Drug Therapy for Obesity

Medications used as an adjunct to diet and exercise for weight management.

Orlistat (Xenical)

FDA-approved weight loss medication that reduces fat absorption.

Semaglutide

A GLP-1 analog that reduces appetite and is used for weight management.

Bariatric Surgery

Surgical options for severe obesity, including gastric bypass and banding.

Metabolic Syndrome Diagnosis

Characterized by the presence of at least three of five specific health conditions.

Waist Circumference (WC)

A measure used to assess abdominal obesity and associated cardiovascular risk.

Insulin Resistance

A condition where cells fail to respond to insulin effectively, often seen in obese individuals.

Healthy Lifestyle Changes

Involves weight loss, exercise, and a balanced diet to manage obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Hypertension

High blood pressure, often associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome.

High Plasma Triglycerides

Elevated triglyceride levels in the blood, a component of metabolic syndrome.

Hyperglycemia

High blood sugar levels, which can be a result of insulin resistance.