Obesity phenotypes and cardiovascular risk: From pathophysiology to clinical management

Obesity epidemic reached the dimensions of a real global health crisis with more than one billion people worldwide living with obesity. Multiple obesity-related mechanisms cause structural, functional, humoral, and hemodynamic alterations with cardiovascular (CV) deleterious effects. A correct assessment of the cardiovascular risk in people with obesity is critical for reducing mortality and preserving quality of life. The correct identification of the obesity status remains difficult as recent evidence suggest that different phenotypes of obesity exist, each one associated with different degrees of CV risk. Diagnosis of obesity cannot depend only on anthropometric parameters but should include a precise assessment of the metabolic status. Recently, the World Heart Federation and World Obesity Federation provided an action plan for management of obesity-related CV risk and mortality, stressing for the instauration of comprehensive structured programs encompassing multidisciplinary teams. In this review we aim at providing an updated summary regarding the different obesity phenotypes, their specific effects on CV risk and differences in clinical management.

Automated summary

The obesity epidemic is a global health crisis, affecting over one billion people worldwide. Obesity has a significant impact on cardiovascular health, causing various structural, functional, humoral, and hemodynamic changes. Accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk in individuals with obesity is crucial for reducing mortality rates and maintaining quality of life. Recent evidence suggests the existence of different phenotypes of obesity, each associated with varying degrees of cardiovascular risk. Diagnosis should not solely rely on anthropometric parameters, but also include a thorough evaluation of metabolic status. The World Heart Federation and World Obesity Federation have proposed an action plan for managing obesity-related cardiovascular risk and mortality, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive multidisciplinary programs. This review aims to provide an updated summary of the different obesity phenotypes, their specific effects on cardiovascular risk, and differences in clinical management.