Obesity

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

A BMI > 30 kg/m2

o Can 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

Aetiology/Risk factors

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

Epidemiology

Answer 3

24% of men and 25% of women are obese

Question 4

Presenting symptoms and signs on physical examination

Answer 4

· Noticing that 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

Investigations

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