European Guidelines for Obesity Management in Adults

Complementary elements of support after gastric-bypass surgery perceived by adults with previous type 2 diabetes: A qualitative study 2 years after bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery is the most medically and cost-effective treatment for adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our findings suggest initial improvements in health-related quality of life that may decline as support from follow-up care ends. How patients experience long-term support is not well described. This study therefore aimed to investigate how adults with previous T2DM perceived different sources of support 2 years after bariatric surgery. In this qualitative study, individual interviews were conducted with 13 adults (10 women) 2 years after surgery. Using thematic analysis, one overarching theme (compiling complementary elements of support after gastric-bypass surgery), four themes and nine subthemes emerged. The results show that support was given and received from various sources, support needs varied over time depending on where the patient was in the process and that the sources of support were complementary. To conclude, our results show that support needs change in adults who have undergone bariatric surgery. Long-term professional and day-to-day support from family and other networks are essential and complementary elements of support. Healthcare staff should consider these findings, especially during the early follow-up period.

Individualised prescription of medications for treatment of obesity in adults

Obesity continues to increase in prevalence globally, driven by changes in environmental factors which have accelerated the development of obesity in individuals with an underlying predisposition to weight gain. The adverse health effects and increased risk for chronic disease associated with obesity are ameliorated by weight loss, with greater benefits from larger amounts of weight reduction. Obesity is a heterogeneous condition, with the drivers, phenotype and complications differing substantially between individuals. This raises the question of whether treatments for obesity, specifically pharmacotherapy, can be targeted based on individual characteristics. This review examines the rationale and the clinical data evaluating this strategy in adults. Individualised prescribing of obesity medication has been successful in rare cases of monogenic obesity where medications have been developed to target dysfunctions in leptin/melanocortin signalling pathways but has been unsuccessful in polygenic obesity due to a lack of understanding of how the gene variants associated with body mass index affect phenotype. At present, the only factor consistently associated with longer-term efficacy of obesity pharmacotherapy is early weight loss outcome, which cannot inform choice of therapy at the time of medication initiation. The concept of matching a therapy for obesity to the characteristics of the individual is appealing but as yet unproven in randomised clinical trials. With increasing technology allowing deeper phenotyping of individuals, increased sophistication in the analysis of big data and the emergence of new treatments, it is possible that precision medicine for obesity will eventuate. For now, a personalised approach that takes into account the person's context, preferences, comorbidities and contraindications is recommended.

Effects of exercise timing on metabolic health

The increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome is associated with major health and socioeconomic consequences. Currently, physical exercise, together with dietary interventions, is the mainstay of the treatment of obesity and related metabolic complications. Although exercise training includes different modalities, with variable intensity, duration, volume, or frequency, which may have a distinct impact on several characteristics related to metabolic syndrome, the potential effects of exercise timing on metabolic health are yet to be fully elucidated. Remarkably, promising results with regard to this topic have been reported in the last few years. Similar to other time-based interventions, including nutritional therapy or drug administration, time-of-day-based exercise may become a useful approach for the management of metabolic disorders. In this article, we review the role of exercise timing in metabolic health and discuss the potential mechanisms that could drive the metabolic-related benefits of physical exercise performed in a time-dependent manner.

High-dose liraglutide improves metabolic syndrome in poor responders to bariatric surgery

Background

Bariatric surgery (BS) represents the most effective therapy for obesity class III, or class II with at least one weight-related comorbidity. However, some patients have insufficient weight loss or clinically relevant weight regain after a successful primary procedure. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of liraglutide treatment on weight loss, body composition and improvement of metabolic syndrome (MS) in patients defined as poor responders after BS.

Methods

The study involved 59 non-diabetic adults with obesity (M/F: 17/42, age: 38.6 ± 11.8 years, BMI 38.3 ± 5.5 kg/m2) who had been treated with BS and experienced a poor response, categorized as either IWL (insufficient weight loss) or WR (weight regain). All patients were prescribed pharmacological therapy with liraglutide and attended nutritional counseling. Anthropometric and clinical measurements, body composition and the presence of MS defined according to the ATP-III classification were evaluated before starting liraglutide and after 24 weeks of treatment.

Results

After 24 weeks of treatment with liraglutide, the mean weight loss was 8.4% ± 3.6% with no difference between gender, bariatric procedure, or type of poor response (IWL or WR). A significant decrease in fat mass, free-fat mass and total body water was documented. After 24 weeks, patients presented significantly lowered fasting glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, AST and ALT. The prevalence of MS was reduced from 35% at baseline to 1.6% after 24 weeks. No patients discontinued the treatment during the study.

Conclusion

In patients who experience poor response after BS, liraglutide is well tolerated and promotes significant weight loss, ameliorates cardiometabolic comorbidities, and reduces the prevalence of MS.

Intermittent fasting for adults with overweight or obesity

This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (intervention). The objectives are as follows:

To assess the effects of intermittent fasting for adults with overweight or obesity.

An alternative approach to obesity treatment: intermittent fasting

Overweight and obesity are an important public health problem that affects a significant part of the world population and increases the risk of many metabolic diseases. Weight loss is the primary goal in obesity treatment, and many different dietary interventions are tried for this purpose. Intermittent fasting is a diet that has become popular in recent years with the weight loss it provides and includes periods of fasting and feeding. In addition to providing weight loss, intermittent fasting also has positive effects on important risk factors such as glucoregulatory parameters, blood lipids, and oxidative stress. Intermittent fasting appears to be an effective and safe way to achieve weight loss in obesity. It could also have therapeutic effects on obesity-related diseases. The aim of this review was to bring together up-to-date information on the effects of intermittent fasting on obesity and various obesity-related diseases, mechanisms of action, possible benefits and harms, and potential uses.

Effects of a Dedicated Cardiac Rehabilitation Program for Patients With Obesity on Body Weight, Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and Physical Fitness: The OPTICARE XL Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

Previously published results of the OPTICARE XL open label randomized controlled trial showed no added value of OPTICARE XL CR, a dedicated cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program for patients with obesity, with respect to health-related quality of life (primary outcome). This clinical trial studied the effects of OPTICARE XL CR on several secondary outcomes, which included body weight, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and physical fitness.

METHODS

Patients with coronary artery disease or atrial fibrillation and body mass index ≥ 30 were randomized to OPTICARE XL CR (n = 102) or standard CR (n = 99). OPTICARE XL CR was a 1-year group intervention, specifically designed for patients with obesity that included aerobic and strength exercise, behavioral coaching, and an aftercare program. Standard CR consisted of a 6- to 12-week group aerobic exercise program, supplemented with cardiovascular lifestyle education. Study end points included body weight, physical activity, sedentary behavior (accelerometer), and physical fitness (6-Minute Walk Test and handgrip strength), which were evaluated 6 months after the end of CR (primary endpoint) and 3 months after the start of CR.

RESULTS

Six months after completion of either program, improvements in body weight, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and physical fitness were similar between the groups. Three months after CR start, patients randomized to OPTICARE XL CR showed greater weight loss (mean change = -3.6 vs -1.8 kg) and a larger improvement in physical activity (+880 vs +481 steps per day) than patients randomized to standard CR.

CONCLUSION

Patients allocated to OPTICARE XL CR lost significantly more body weight and showed promising results with respect to physical activity 3 months after the start of CR; however, these short-term results were not expanded or sustained in the longer term.

IMPACT

Patients with obesity do not benefit from standard CR programs. The new OPTICARE XL CR program showed its effects in the short term on weight loss and physical activity, and, therefore, redesign of the aftercare phase is recommended.

A Body Shape Index is positively associated with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality in the Chinese population with normal weight: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

A body shape index (ABSI) is a valuable predictor of mortality in the Western population, but similar evidence in the general Chinese population is limited. This study aims to evaluate the association between the ABSI and all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in the Chinese population with normal weight.

METHODS AND RESULTS

9046 participants with normal BMI (18.5-24.9 kg/m2) from the China Hypertension Survey were enrolled. The baseline ABSI was calculated as waist circumference/(BMI2/3height1/2). Cox proportional hazards regression was performed to evaluate the association of the ABSI with all-cause and CVD mortality. Over an average follow-up of 5.4 years, 686 all-cause and 215 CVD deaths occurred. A 0.01-unit increment in the ABSI was associated with a 31% greater risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.31; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.48) and CVD mortality (HR, 1.30; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.58). Compared with quartile 1 of the ABSI, the adjusted HRs of all-cause mortality for quartiles 2-4 were, respectively, 1.25 (95% CI: 0.98, 1.59), 1.28 (95% CI: 0.99, 1.67), and 1.54 (95% CI: 1.17, 2.03) (Ptrend = 0.004), and those of CVD mortality for quartiles 2-4 were, respectively, 1.28 (95% CI: 0.88, 1.83), 1.42 (95% CI: 0.97, 2.08), and 1.45 (95% CI: 0.98, 2.170) (Ptrend = 0.043). The dose-response analysis showed a linear positive association of the ABSI with all-cause (Pnonlinearity = 0.158) and CVD mortality (Pnonlinearity = 0.213).

CONCLUSION

The ABSI was positively associated with all-cause and CVD mortality among the general Chinese population with normal BMI. The data suggest that the ABSI may be an effective tool for central fatness for mortality risk assessment.

Endocrine factors associated with infertility in women: an updated review

INTRODUCTION

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after unprotected sexual intercourse for at least 12 consecutive months. Our objective is to present an updated narrative review on the endocrine causes of infertility in women.

AREAS COVERED

A comprehensive review was conducted using Scielo, Scopus, and EMBASE databases, comprising 245 articles. The pathophysiology of infertility in women was described, including endocrinopathies such as hypothalamic amenorrhea, hyperprolactinemia, polycystic ovary syndrome, primary ovarian insufficiency, obesity, thyroid dysfunction, and adrenal disorders. The diagnostic approach was outlined, emphasizing the necessity of hormonal studies and ovarian response assessments. Additionally, the treatment plan was presented, commencing with non-pharmacological interventions, encompassing the adoption of a Mediterranean diet, vitamin supplementation, moderate exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. Subsequently, pharmacological treatment was discussed, focusing on the management of associated endocrine disorders and ovulatory dysfunction.

EXPERT OPINION

This comprehensive review highlights the impact of endocrine disorders on fertility in women, providing diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms. Despite remaining knowledge gaps that hinder more effective treatments, ongoing research and advancements show promise for improved fertility success rates within the next five years. Enhanced comprehension of the pathophysiology behind endocrine causes and the progress in genetic research will facilitate the delivery of personalized treatments, thus enhancing fertility rates.

A review of the evidence on cardiovascular outcomes from obesity treatment

Background

Obesity is a chronic disease with a myriad of complications including cardiovascular disease. There is a growing interest to examine if obesity treatment is associated with cardiovascular outcomes.

Methods

In this narrative review, we focused on randomized controlled trials (RCT) with cardiovascular outcomes (CVO) from lifestyle intervention, bariatric surgery, glucagon-like peptide-1 analogues (GLP-1a) and other pharmacotherapy. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive look into the RCT of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and CVO in obesity, while also summarizing several ongoing randomized cardiovascular outcome controlled trials for the pharmacological treatment of obesity.

Results

To date, the results from the randomized controlled trials supported the association between obesity treatment and cardiovascular outcomes. Studies have large sample sizes, conducted over long duration, with the majority demonstrating superiority in primary cardiovascular outcome end points compared to placebo.

Conclusion

Future data from several ongoing anti-obesity medications cardiovascular outcome trials such as SELECT, SURPASS, SUMMIT and SURMOUNT-MMO hold promises. Further studies are warranted to investigate the long term cardiovascular outcomes following lifestyle intervention and bariatric surgery.

Oral semaglutide 50 mg taken once per day in adults with overweight or obesity (OASIS 1): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial

BACKGROUND

We assessed the efficacy and safety of the oral glucagon-like peptide-1 analogue, semaglutide 50 mg, taken once per day versus placebo for the treatment of overweight or obesity in adults without type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3, superiority trial enrolled adults with a BMI of at least 30 kg/m2, or at least 27 kg/m2 with bodyweight-related complications and comorbidities, without type 2 diabetes. The trial was done at 50 outpatient clinics in nine countries across Asia, Europe, and North America. Participants were randomly allocated (1:1) via an interactive web-response system to oral semaglutide escalated to 50 mg, or visually matching placebo, once per day for 68 weeks, plus lifestyle intervention. Group assignment was masked for participants, investigators, and those assessing outcomes. Coprimary endpoints were the percentage change in bodyweight and whether participants reached a bodyweight reduction of at least 5% at week 68 for oral semaglutide 50 mg versus placebo, assessed regardless of treatment discontinuation or use of other bodyweight-lowering therapies (an intention-to-treat analysis). Safety was assessed in participants who received at least one dose of trial drug. This trial, registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05035095), is now complete.

FINDINGS

From Sept 13 to Nov 22, 2021, 709 participants were screened, of whom 667 were randomly assigned to oral semaglutide 50 mg (n=334) or placebo (n=333). The estimated mean bodyweight change from baseline to week 68 was -15·1% (SE 0·5) with oral semaglutide 50 mg versus -2·4% (0·5) with placebo (estimated treatment difference -12·7 percentage points, 95% CI -14·2 to -11·3; p<0·0001). More participants reached bodyweight reductions of at least 5% (269 [85%] of 317 vs 76 [26%] of 295; odds ratio [OR] 12·6, 95% CI 8·5 to 18·7; p<0·0001), 10% (220 [69%] vs 35 [12%]; OR 14·7, 9·6 to 22·6), 15% (170 [54%] vs 17 [6%]; OR 17·9, 10·4 to 30·7), and 20% (107 [34%] vs 8 [3%]; OR 18·5, 8·8 to 38·9) at week 68 with oral semaglutide 50 mg versus placebo. Adverse events were more frequent with oral semaglutide 50 mg (307 [92%] of 334) than with placebo (285 [86%] of 333). Gastrointestinal adverse events (mostly mild to moderate) were reported in 268 (80%) participants with oral semaglutide 50 mg and 154 (46%) with placebo.

INTERPRETATION

In adults with overweight or obesity without type 2 diabetes, oral semaglutide 50 mg once per day led to a superior and clinically meaningful decrease in bodyweight compared with placebo.

FUNDING

Novo Nordisk.

Impact of 4-week of a restricted Mediterranean diet on taste perception, anthropometric, and blood parameters in subjects with severe obesity

Introduction

The study of taste functionality and its relation to human health is receiving growing attention. Obesity has been reported to cause alterations in sensory perception regarding system functionality and preferences. However, a small body of research addresses tastes perception and its modification with the achievement of body mass reduction through surgical intervention. Much fewer efforts have been made to evaluate the impact of mild restrictive nutritional intervention on gustatory functions. Thus, the objectives of this study were to determine if a dietary intervention of 4 weeks following a restricted balanced Mediterranean diet would affect the sweet and salty taste thresholds of subjects with severe obesity and could influence their anthropometric and blood parameters.

Methods

Fifty-one patients with severe obesity (F: 31; age: 43.7 ± 12.5; BMI = 47.6 ± 1.0) were enrolled in the study. The recognition threshold for sweet and salty taste and anthropometric and blood parameters were assessed before and after the 4-week weight loss program.

Results and Discussion

The Mediterranean diet has proven to be an effective treatment, significantly improving all anthropometric and blood parameters (p < 0.05) after 4 weeks of intervention. Moreover, the hypo-sodium treatment associated with the diet significantly improved the salty threshold (p < 0.001). No changes were detected for the sweet threshold. Collectively, these data highlight that dietary treatment might impact taste perception differently. Therefore, a taste-oriented nutritional intervention could represent a novel approach to developing more individualized, taste-oriented follow-up interventions to maintain sustainable and long-term weight loss.

Intravenous Lidocaine Decreased the Median Effective Concentration of Sufentanil for Tracheal Intubation in Obese Patients

Purpose

Sufentanil has been widely used to inhibit the hemodynamic responses caused by tracheal intubation. Using intravenous lidocaine may reduce the dose of sufentanil and better maintain the hemodynamics. This study aimed to determine the effects of intravenous lidocaine on the median effective concentration (EC50) of sufentanil for endotracheal intubation in obese patients.

Patients and Methods

This is a randomized, double-blind, up-and-down sequential allocation study. Fifty obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery were randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio into the lidocaine group and the saline group. Anesthesia was induced using a target-controlled infusion of propofol and sufentanil. The effect-site concentration (Ce) of propofol was 3.5 μg/mL. The Ce of sufentanil for the first patient was 0.4 ng/mL, and the sufentanil dose for the next patient was determined according to the responses of the previous patient, using Dixon's up-and-down sequential method with an interval of 0.05 ng/mL. When the target concentration of propofol and sufentanil was reached, lidocaine 1.5 mg/kg or the same volume of normal saline was infused over 3 min. Tracheal intubation was performed 3 min after the end of the lidocaine or normal saline infusion. Probit regression was used to calculate the EC50 and 95% confidence interval (CI) of sufentanil.

Results

Thirty-eight patients completed this study. The EC50 of sufentanil was 0.36 ng/mL (95% CI: 0.31-0.41 ng/mL) in the lidocaine group, which was significantly lower than 0.50 ng/mL (95% CI: 0.43-0.62 ng/mL) in the saline group. In addition, compared with saline group, the dosage of sufentanil in lidocaine group decreased significantly during the test. The hemodynamics of the two groups were stable during the study period.

Conclusion

Intravenous lidocaine 1.5 mg/kg decreased the EC50 of sufentanil required for tracheal intubation in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

Usefulness of an Easy, Structured, and Home-Based Exercise Program to Improve Physical Performance and Quality of Life in a Patient's Cohort with Obesity

INTRODUCTION

The benefits of exercise in patients with obesity are clear; physical performance and quality of life improve after exercise programs in patients with obesity. Our aim was to evaluate the usefulness of an easy, structured, and home-based exercise program to improve physical performance and quality-of-life in patients with obesity.

METHODS

A cohort of patients with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) was recruited during 2017-2020. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were invited and those who accepted signed informed consent. Patients were evaluated by the same team of physicians who performed the 6-min walking test and collected the clinical and biochemical variables, also applied quality-of-life questionnaire at baseline and 3 months after starting the exercise program that was divided in two levels: level 1: active mobilization of four limbs (15 min) + cardiovascular exercise (15 min walking), 5 days/week; level 2: eight strengthening exercises for upper and lower limbs with an elastic band + cardiovascular exercise (15 min walking), 5 days/week. This study used means (SD), frequencies (percent), Student's t test, and Pearson correlation test.

RESULTS

We included 151 patients, mostly women (81.5%), age 46.3 ± 9.8 years old, BMI 40.3 ± 8.56 kg/m2, 34.4% performed some type of exercise, and the most frequents comorbidities were dyslipidemia and diabetes. After 3 months, 86 patients (57%) remained in the study and attended the final evaluation. Evident changes in physical performance were reported (distance traveled, speed walking and VO2max); however, improvement in quality of life was remarkable.

CONCLUSION

An easy, structured, and home-based exercise program improves physical performance and quality of life in patients with obesity, without losing its benefits for the health.

Initial Weight Loss, Anthropometric Parameters, and Proinflammatory Transcript Levels in Patients with Class I Obesity

Research into early predictors of effective weight loss could help determine more effective therapeutic interventions. In this study, 106 subjects with class I obesity, genotyped with the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) rs9930506 gene variant, were enrolled into a 12-week weight loss program (WLP). Anthropometric and body composition measurements were controlled with bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) at baseline and after 4 and 12 weeks. Biopsies of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (AT) and venous blood samples were collected to monitor changes in interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) mRNA levels in white blood cells (WBCs) and to assess if changes in WBC gene expression reflected changes in adipose tissue. The FTO rs9930506 variant had no effect on weight loss and no reduction in proinflammatory transcripts in WBCs or AT. Changes in anthropometric parameters were associated with changes in carbohydrate metabolism. A linear regression model showed that initial weight loss (after 4 weeks of the WLP) was the most predictive factor of weight loss success after 12 weeks of the WLP. Changes in plasma lipids or proinflammatory transcript levels in WBCs or AT were not associated with weight loss effectiveness. However, the gene expression in WBCs did reflect changes occurring in subcutaneous AT.

A Dietary and Lifestyle Intervention Improves Treatment Adherence and Clinical Outcomes in Overweight and Obese Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

The study's objective was to assess the impact of Mediterranean diet/lifestyle interventions for weight loss on positive airway pressure (PAP) adherence, body mass index (ΒΜΙ), sleepiness, and blood pressure measurements (BP) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We designed a randomized, controlled trial, including overweight and obese patients with moderate to severe OSA, randomized to standard care (SCG, n = 37) or a Mediterranean diet group (MDG, n = 37). The SCG received healthy lifestyle advice, while the MDG underwent a 6-month behavioral intervention aiming to enhance weight loss and adherence to a Mediterranean diet. PAP adherence, BMI, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and BP measurements were evaluated pre- and post-intervention. Post-intervention PAP use was higher in the MDG compared to the SCG (6.1 vs. 5.4, p = 0.02). Diet/lifestyle intervention was one of the most significant predictive factors for PAP adherence (OR = 5.458, 95% CI = 1.144-26.036, p = 0.03). The SCG demonstrated a rise in BMI, while the MDG displayed a decline (0.41 vs. -0.75, p = 0.02). The MDG also demonstrated a substantial reduction in adjusted SBP (-5.5 vs. 2.8, p = 0.014) and DBP (-4.0 vs. 2.5, p = 0.01). Ultimately, incorporating a dietary/lifestyle intervention with standard care yields superior PAP adherence, BMI, and BP measurements in contrast to standard care alone, emphasizing the advantages of dedicating more time and support within the MDG.

Timing of energy intake and the therapeutic potential of intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating in NAFLD

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents a major public health concern and is associated with a substantial global burden of liver-related and cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality. High total energy intake coupled with unhealthy consumption of ultra-processed foods and saturated fats have long been regarded as major dietary drivers of NAFLD. However, there is an accumulating body of evidence demonstrating that the timing of energy intake across a the day is also an important determinant of individual risk for NAFLD and associated metabolic conditions. This review summarises the available observational and epidemiological data describing associations between eating patterns and metabolic disease, including the negative effects of irregular meal patterns, skipping breakfast and night-time eating on liver health. We suggest that that these harmful behaviours deserve greater consideration in the risk stratification and management of patients with NAFLD particularly in a 24-hour society with continuous availability of food and with up to 20% of the population now engaged in shiftwork with mistimed eating patterns. We also draw on studies reporting the liver-specific impact of Ramadan, which represents a unique real-world opportunity to explore the physiological impact of fasting. By highlighting data from preclinical and pilot human studies, we present a further biological rationale for manipulating timing of energy intake to improve metabolic health and discuss how this may be mediated through restoration of natural circadian rhythms. Lastly, we comprehensively review the landscape of human trials of intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating in metabolic disease and offer a look to the future about how these dietary strategies may benefit patients with NAFLD and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Analysis of Serious Weight Gain in Patients Using Alectinib for ALK-Positive Lung Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Alectinib is a standard-of-care treatment for metastatic ALK+ NSCLC. Weight gain is an unexplored side effect reported in approximately 10%. To prevent or intervene alectinib-induced weight gain, more insight in its extent and etiology is needed.

METHODS

Change in body composition was analyzed in a prospective series of 46 patients with ALK+ NSCLC, treated with alectinib. Waist circumference, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and skeletal muscle were quantified using sliceOmatic software on computed tomography images at baseline, 3 months (3M), and 1 year (1Y). To investigate an exposure-toxicity relationship, alectinib plasma concentrations were quantified. Four patients with more than 10 kg weight gain were referred to Erasmus MC Obesity Center CGG for in-depth analysis (e.g., assessments of appetite, dietary habits, other lifestyle, medical and psychosocial factors, and extensive metabolic and endocrine assessments, including resting energy expenditure).

RESULTS

Mean increase in waist circumference was 9 cm (9.7%, p < 0.001) in 1Y with a 40% increase in abdominal obesity (p = 0.014). VAT increased to 10.8 cm2 (15.0%, p = 0.003) in 3M and 35.7 cm2 (39.0%, p < 0.001) in 1Y. SAT increased to 18.8 cm2 (12.4%, p < 0.001) in 3M and 45.4 cm2 (33.3%, p < 0.001) in 1Y. The incidence of sarcopenic obesity increased from 23.7% to 47.4% during 1Y of treatment. Baseline waist circumference was a positive predictor of increase in VAT (p = 0.037). No exposure-toxicity relationship was found. In-depth analysis (n = 4) revealed increased appetite in two patients and metabolic syndrome in all four patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Alectinib may cause relevant increased sarcopenic abdominal obesity, with increases of both VAT and SAT, quickly after initiation. This may lead to many serious metabolic, physical, and mental disturbances in long-surviving patients.

Dose-response effects of exercise and caloric restriction on visceral adiposity in overweight and obese adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To determine and compare the dose-response effects of exercise and caloric restriction on visceral adipose tissue in overweight and obese adults, while controlling for the weekly energy deficit induced by the interventions.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science were searched for randomised controlled trials comparing exercise or caloric restriction against eucaloric controls in overweight or obese adults. The primary outcome was the change in visceral fat measured by CT or MRI. Meta-analyses and meta-regressions were performed to determine the overall effect size (ES) and the dose-dependent relationship of exercise and caloric restriction on visceral fat. Heterogeneity, risk of bias and the certainty of evidence were also assessed.

RESULTS

Forty randomised controlled trials involving 2190 participants were included. Overall, exercise (ES -0.28 (-0.37 to -0.19); p<0.001; I2=25%) and caloric restriction (ES -0.53 (-0.71 to -0.35); p<0.001; I2=33%) reduced visceral fat compared with the controls. Exercise demonstrated a dose-response effect of -0.15 ((-0.23 to -0.07); p<0.001) per 1000 calories deficit per week, whereas the effect of caloric restriction was not dose-dependent (ES 0.03 (-0.12 to 0.18); p=0.64). Most of the studies showed a moderate risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the dose-dependent effects of exercise to reduce visceral fat in overweight and obese adults. Caloric restriction did not demonstrate a dose-response relationship, although this may be attributed to the smaller number of studies available for analysis, compared with exercise studies.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020210096.

Prediction of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) after bariatric surgery using regularized linear regression models: results from a Swedish nationwide quality register

PURPOSE

To investigate whether the quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) of the patients who underwent bariatric surgery could be predicted using their baseline information.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients who received bariatric surgery in Sweden between January 1, 2011 and March 31, 2019 were obtained from the Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry (SOReg). Baseline information included patients' sociodemographic characteristics, details regarding the procedure, and postsurgical conditions. QALYs were assessed by the SF-6D at follow-up years 1 and 2. The general and regularized linear regression models were used to predict postoperative QALYs.

RESULTS

All regression models demonstrated satisfactory and comparable performance in predicting QALYs at follow-up year 1, with R2 and relative root mean squared error (RRMSE) values of about 0.57 and 9.6%, respectively. The performance of the general linear regression model increased with the number of variables; however, the improvement was ignorable when the number of variables was more than 30 and 50 for follow-up years 1 and 2, respectively. Although minor L1 and L2 regularization provided better prediction ability, the improvement was negligible when the number of variables was more than 20. All the models showed poorer performance for predicting QALYs at follow-up year 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient characteristics before bariatric surgery including health related quality of life, age, sex, BMI, postoperative complications within six weeks, and smoking status, may be adequate in predicting their postoperative QALYs after one year. Understanding these factors can help identify individuals who require more personalized and intensive support before, during, and after surgery.

Interventions to Address Cardiovascular Risk in Obese Patients: Many Hands Make Light Work

Obesity is a growing public health epidemic worldwide and is implicated in slowing improved life expectancy and increasing cardiovascular (CV) risk; indeed, several obesity-related mechanisms drive structural, functional, humoral, and hemodynamic heart alterations. On the other hand, obesity may indirectly cause CV disease, mediated through different obesity-associated comorbidities. Diet and physical activity are key points in preventing CV disease and reducing CV risk; however, these strategies alone are not always sufficient, so other approaches, such as pharmacological treatments and bariatric surgery, must support them. Moreover, these strategies are associated with improved CV risk factors and effectively reduce the incidence of death and CV events such as myocardial infarction and stroke; consequently, an individualized care plan with a multidisciplinary approach is recommended. More precisely, this review explores several interventions (diet, physical activity, pharmacological and surgical treatments) to address CV risk in obese patients and emphasizes the importance of adherence to treatments.

Low Perception of Obesity as a Pathological Condition Among Italian Cardiologists

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is not only an important modifiable cardiovascular risk factor but also a chronic disease with relevant consequences on morbidity and mortality in the general population. According to European guidelines, cardiologists must recognize and treat it properly.

AIMS

To assess perception of obesity as a modifiable pathological condition and the importance to treat it in a real-world sample of cardiologists and residents in cardiology.

METHODS

A nationwide, web-based, epidemiological survey on the perception of obesity as a disease and as a modifiable cardiovascular risk factors was conducted in 137 medical doctors (cardiologists and residents in cardiology). Participants filled with their answers a questionnaire of 31 questions about perception of obesity and strategies on cardiovascular disease prevention in clinical practice.

RESULTS

Of 137 individuals enrolled in our survey only 5 (3.6%) reported to measure waist circumference in their clinical practice and only 3 (2.2%) reported to measure waist-to-hip ratio. One-hundred-twenty participants (87.6%) would not prescribe an anti-obesity drug to a patient with grade II obesity. Sixty-eight (49.6%) participants have never read or heard of a clinical trial on obesity. On the other hand, 134 (97.8%) routinely measured blood pressure in their clinical practice, 129 (94.2%) would prescribe a statin for a hypercholesterolemic patient and 132 (96.4%) subjects have read/heard a clinical trial on type 2 diabetes in their life.

CONCLUSIONS

Although obesity is a chronic disease and an important modifiable cardiovascular risk factor such as arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, cigarette smoke and diabetes, cardiologists and residents in cardiology substantially underestimate it ignoring that it should be treated as a proper disease.

The perceptions of healthcare practitioners on obesity management in Peninsular Malaysia: a cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND

Practitioners' perceptions of patients with obesity and obesity management shape their engagement in obesity care delivery. This study aims to describe practitioners' perceptions, experiences and needs in managing patients with obesity, determine the extent of weight stigma among health practitioners, and identify the factors associated with negative judgment towards patients with obesity.

METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from May to August 2022 with health practitioners commonly involved in obesity management in Peninsular Malaysia, including doctors in primary care, internal medicine and bariatric surgery, and allied health practitioners. The survey explored practitioners' perceptions, barriers and needs in managing obesity, and evaluated weight stigma using the Universal Measures of Bias - Fat (UMB Fat) questionnaire. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify demographic and clinical-related factors associated with higher negative judgment towards patients with obesity.

RESULTS

A total of 209 participants completed the survey (completion rate of 55.4%). The majority (n = 196, 94.3%) agreed that obesity is a chronic disease, perceived a responsibility to provide care (n = 176, 84.2%) and were motivated to help patients to lose weight (n = 160, 76.6%). However, only 22% (n = 46) thought their patients were motivated to lose weight. The most frequently reported barriers to obesity discussions were short consultation time, patients' lack of motivation, and having other, more important, concerns to discuss. Practitioners needed support with access to multi-disciplinary care, advanced obesity training, financing, comprehensive obesity management guidelines and access to obesity medications. The mean (SD) of the UMB Fat summary score was 2.99 (0.87), with the mean (SD) domain scores ranging between 2.21 and 4.36 (1.06 to 1.45). No demographic and clinical-related factors were significantly associated with negative judgment from the multiple linear regression analyses.

CONCLUSION

Practitioners in this study considered obesity a chronic disease. While they had the motivation and capacity to engage in obesity management, physical and social opportunities were the reasons for not discussing obesity with their patients. Practitioners needed more support to enhance their capability and opportunity to engage with obesity management. Weight stigma in healthcare settings in Malaysia should be addressed, given the possibility of hindering weight discussions with patients.

Usefulness and performance evaluation of serum KL-6 and SP-A assays in healthy individuals and patients with interstitial lung disease

BACKGROUND

Interstitial lung abnormalities (ILAs) are associated with the risk of progression to interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). Krebs von den Lungen 6 (KL-6) and surfactant protein (SP)-A have been used as biomarkers of ILDs. In this study, we evaluated the levels of these biomarkers and identified their clinical correlations in healthy individuals to assess their usefulness in the diagnosis of ILAs.

METHODS

The patient samples were categorized into three groups: healthy, disease, and ILD groups. We used the automated immunoassay HISCL KL-6 and SP-A assay kits. The analytical performance evaluation involved precision, linearity, comparison, establishment of reference intervals, and determination of the cutoff points. We also analyzed the correlations between presence of abnormalities on chest radiography and computed tomography (CT) or pulmonary function test (PFT) and serum levels in the healthy group.

RESULTS

KL-6 and SP-A assays showed good analytical performance. The KL-6 and SP-A cutoff values were 304 U/mL and 43.5 ng/mL between the ILD and healthy groups, respectively, which were lower than the values recommended by the manufacturer. In the clinical correlations with radiological findings, SP-A values in subjects with lung abnormalities on CT scans were significantly higher than those in normal scans. There was no significant difference in KL-6 and SP-A levels among PFT patterns; however, both serum levels in the mixed pattern showed higher values than those in the other patterns.

CONCLUSIONS

The results revealed a positive association between increased serum levels of SP-A and KL-6 and clinical characteristics as incidental findings on chest imaging and reduced lung function.

Stratification of obesity phenotypes to optimize future therapy (SOPHIA)

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is considered a poor lifestyle choice. 'Obesity' is not a sufficient definition for patients, any more than 'cancer' or 'arthritis' would be. A major obstacle is the lack of understanding of pathogenesis. The disease of obesity is considered homogenous, while response to treatment is thought of as heterogeneous. This can change if pathogenesis, risk profiles for complications, and treatment responses are viewed within the context of obesity consisting of several subsets of disease.

AREAS COVERED

The European Union-funded Innovative Medicine Initiative project Stratification of Obesity Phenotypes to Optimize Future Obesity Therapy is part of a momentum shift. Operational variables are being used to develop tests and therapies which may allow the prediction of risk of obesities and the prediction of response to obesity treatments. However, changing stakeholder perspectives on obesity may require more than high-quality data and analysis.

EXPERT OPINION

For patients to benefit, clinicians need to integrate evidence-based treatments and payers need to reimburse the management of the disease of obesity. This will generate commercial opportunities for industry. We need to involve stakeholders (patients, clinicians, regulators, payer, patient organisations) to create a shared value for mutual gain.

Treating Binge Eating Disorder With Physical Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to collect evidence about the effectiveness of exercise programs for managing binge eating disorder (BED) (recurrent binge eating episodes).

METHODS

Meta-analysis was developed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol. Articles were searched in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Randomized controlled trials were eligible for inclusion if they reported the effect of an exercise-based program on BED symptoms in adults. Outcomes were changes in binge eating symptom severity, measured through validated assessment instruments, after an exercise-based intervention. Study results were pooled using the Bayesian model averaging for random and fixed effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Of 2,757 studies, 5 trials were included, with 264 participants. The mean age was 44.7 ± 8.1 years for the intervention group and 46.6 ± 8.5 years for the control group. All participants were female. A significant improvement was observed between groups (standardized mean difference, 0.94; 95% credibility interval, -1.46 to -0.31). Patients obtained significant improvements either following supervised exercise programs or home-based exercise prescriptions.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH AND PRACTICE

These findings suggest that physical exercise, within a multidisciplinary clinical and psychotherapeutic approach, may be an effective intervention for managing BED symptoms. Further comparative studies are needed to clarify which exercise modality is associated with greater clinical benefits.

Efficacy and safety of subcutaneous semaglutide in adults with overweight or obese: a subgroup meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Introduction

Semaglutide shows significant performance on weight reduction in several clinical trials. However, it is not clear what kind of administration frequency or dosage will achieve better effects. This study aims to explore the different therapeutic effect of semaglutide on weight control under the diverse administration circumstances.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and the Clinical Trials.gov were searched from inception until 6 June, 2022 to include randomized controlled trials evaluating the Efficacy and safety of subcutaneous semaglutide in overweight or obese adults. Random effects or fixed effects model was conducted based on the heterogeneity among trials. Subgroup analysis was performed to identify the detailed effects under different intervention situations.

Results and discussion

Our study included 13 RCTs involving 5,838 participants with 3,794 ones in semaglutide group and 2,044 in placebo group. Semaglutide was associated with a significant reduction on weight loss related outcomes, including the absolute value of weight loss (WMD -8·97, 95% CI -10·73 to -7·21), percentage of weight loss (WMD -10·00, 95% CI -11·99 to -8·00), body mass index (WMD-3·19, 95% CI -4·02 to -2·37) and waist circumference (WMD -7·21,95% CI -8·87 to -5·56). Subgroup analyses illustrated participants with high weekly dosage, long-term treatment duration and severe baseline BMI (Class II obesity) had a more remarkably decreasing on the main outcomes of weight loss (P for interaction<0·05). Total adverse reactions occurred more frequently in the daily administration group than that in the weekly group (P for interaction =0·01). During the treatment, the incidence rate of hypoglycemia was higher in the group without lifestyle intervention compared with that with lifestyle intervention (P for interaction =0·04). Interpretation Subcutaneous semaglutide had significant benefits on weight loss with reasonable safety in overweight or obese adults. Moreover, additional benefits on cardiometabolic profiles were also seen. We recommended semaglutide treatment to be coupled with lifestyle interventions, and target dose of 2·0 mg or more subcutaneously once weekly. Clinicians can choose suitable treatment schemes based on diverse individual situations.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=337099, identifier PROSPERO (CRD42022337099).

Gender Differences in the Risk for Incident Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease According to the Transition of Abdominal Obesity Status: A 16-Year Cohort Study

Waist circumference (WC) is an important predictor of long-term adverse outcomes. We aimed at assessing the correlation between abdominal obesity (AO) patterns and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Data from 4467 adults aged 40-69 years and without NAFLD who participated in the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study were analyzed. Participants were classified according to two-year WC pattern into four groups: persistent lean WC, improved AO, progressed to AO, and persistent AO. NAFLD was defined as NAFLD-liver fat score >-0.640. Multiple Cox proportional hazards regression analysis revealed that the fully adjusted hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence intervals (CIs)) for NAFLD in persistent AO, progressed to AO, and improved AO groups compared to the persistent lean WC group was 1.33 (1.13-1.57), 1.73 (1.48-2.02), and 1.06 (0.84-1.33), respectively. Women in persistent AO or progressed to AO groups had significantly higher risk for NAFLD than those in persistent lean WC or improved AO groups. Men who had progressed to an AO event over two years had significantly higher risk for NAFLD than those without any AO event over two years. Maintaining lean WC and improving AO would be successful strategies for preventing NAFLD in women, while maintaining lean WC would be more effective in men.

Comparison of Protein- or Amino Acid-Based Supplements in the Rehabilitation of Men with Severe Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Weight loss is associated with a reduction in all body compartments, including muscle mass (MM), and this effect produces a decrease in function and muscle strength. Our objective was to assess the impact of protein or amino acid supplements on MM loss in middle-aged men (age < 65 years) with severe obesity (BMI > 35 kg/m2) during weight loss.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a single-site randomized controlled trial (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05143398) with 40 in-patient male subjects with severe obesity. Participants underwent an intervention program consisting of a low-calorie balanced diet and structured physical activity. They were randomly assigned to 4-week treatment groups: (1) control (CTR, N = 10), (2) protein (P, N = 10), (3) branched-chain amino acid (BCAA, N = 10), and (4) essential amino acid mixture with tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates (PD-E07, N = 10) supplementation.

RESULTS

Following 4 weeks of intervention, all groups showed similar reductions in body weight compared to baseline. When examining the delta values, a notable increase in muscle mass (MM) was observed in the PD-E07 intervention group [MM (kg): 2.84 ± 3.57; MM (%): 3.63 ± 3.14], in contrast to the CTR group [MM (kg): -2.46 ± 3.04; MM (%): -0.47 ± 2.28], with a statistical significance of p = 0.045 and p = 0.023, respectively. However, the MM values for the P group [MM (kg): -2.75 ± 5.98, p = 0.734; MM (%): -0.44 ± 4.02, p = 0.990] and the BCAA group [MM (kg): -1 ± 3.3, p = 0.734; MM (%): 0.34 ± 2.85, p = 0.956] did not exhibit a statistically significant difference when compared to the CTR group.

CONCLUSIONS

Amino acid-based supplements may effectively mitigate the loss of MM typically observed during weight reduction. Further validation through large-scale studies is necessary.

Fecal microbiota transplantation in obesity metabolism: a META analysis and systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The effect of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on microbiota engraftment in patients with metabolic syndrome remains unclear. This systematic review employed a meta-analysis of RCTs for assessment on the role of FMT in treating obesity and metabolic syndrome, and its impact on clinically relevant parameters.

METHOD

Major databases and grey literatures were searched identifying RCTs comparing FMT of lean donors with placebo in obese/metabolic syndrome patients. Studies using any form of placebo were included. Variations in the parameters before and after treatment were calculated followed by meta-analyses.

RESULT

Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and a total of 334 patients were included for further analysis. Clinically significant parameters associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome were explored and FMT was identified significantly and negatively associated with most indices of abdominal adiposity including caloric intake, fasting glucose, HOMA-IR, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides and CRP, Obesity parameters including fasting glucose and acetic acid were increased following FMT.

CONCLUSION

FMT is more advantageous for obese patients with elevated blood pressure, disordered glucose and insulin metabolism, and elevated blood lipids. The study of metabolic factors in obese patients will be our starting point in the future.

Gender, Obesity, Fat Distribution and 25-Hydroxyvitamin D

Background and Objectives: Obesity is a worldwide disease associated with systemic complications. In recent years, there has been growing interest in studying vitamin D but data related to obese subjects are still poor. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between obesity degree and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels. Materials and Methods: We recruited 147 Caucasian adult obese patients (BMI > 30 Kg/m²; 49 male; median age 53 years), and 20 overweight subjects as control group (median age 57 years), who had been referred to our Obesity Center of Chieti (Italy) between May 2020 and September 2021. Results: The median BMI was 38 (33-42) kg/m² for obese patients and 27 (26-28) kg/m² for overweight patients. 25(OH)D concentrations were lower in the obese population compared to the overweight population (19 ng/mL vs. 36 ng/mL; p < 0.001). Considering all obese subjects, a negative correlation was observed between 25(OH)D concentrations and obesity-related parameters (weight, BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, visceral fat, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol) and glucose metabolism-related parameters. 25(OH)D was also negatively correlated with blood pressure. Conclusions: Our data confirmed the inverse relationship between obesity and blood concentration of 25(OH)D and highlighted how 25(OH)D levels decrease in the presence of glucose and lipid metabolism alterations.

Elevated Body Mass Index Is Associated with Improved Overall Survival in Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Patients Undergoing Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Directed Radioligand Therapy

In patients with prostate cancer scheduled for systemic treatment, being overweight is linked to prolonged overall survival (OS), whereas sarcopenia is associated with shorter OS. We investigated fat-related and body composition parameters in patients undergoing prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-directed radioligand therapy (RLT) to assess their predictive value for OS. Methods: Body mass index (BMI, in kg/m²) and CT-derived body composition parameters (total, subcutaneous, visceral fat area, and psoas muscle area at the L3-L4 level) were determined for 171 patients scheduled for PSMA-directed RLT. After normalization for stature, the psoas muscle index was used to define sarcopenia. Outcome analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression including fat-related and other clinical parameters (Gleason score, C-reactive protein [CRP], lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], hemoglobin, and prostate-specific antigen levels). The Harrell C-index was used for goodness-of-fit analysis. Results: Sixty-five patients (38%) had sarcopenia, and 98 patients (57.3%) had increased BMI. Relative to the 8-mo OS in normal-weight men (BMI < 25), overweight men (25 ≥ BMI > 30) and obese men (BMI ≥ 30) achieved a longer OS of 14 mo (hazard ratio [HR], 0.63; 95% CI, 0.40-0.99; P = 0.03) and 13 mo (HR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.29-0.77; P = 0.004), respectively. Sarcopenia showed no impact on OS (11 vs. 12 mo; HR, 1.4; 95% CI, 0.91-2.1; P = 0.09). Most of the body composition parameters were tightly linked to OS on univariable analyses, with the highest C-index for BMI. In multivariable analysis, a higher BMI (HR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.86-0.97; P = 0.006), lower CRP (HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.03-1.14; P < 0.001), lower LDH (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.03-1.14; P < 0.001), and longer interval between initial diagnosis and RLT (HR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.91-0.99; P = 0.02) were significant predictors of OS. Conclusion: Increased fat reserves assessed by BMI, CRP, LDH, and interval between initial diagnosis and RLT, but not CT-derived body composition parameters, were relevant predictors for OS. As BMI can be altered, future research should investigate whether a high-calorie diet before or during PSMA RLT may improve OS.

How effective are lifestyle interventions for overweight women trying to conceive?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize and critically review the current knowledge on the effectiveness of lifestyle modifications for overweight women trying to conceive.

RECENT FINDINGS

Overweight is associated with a wide spectrum of disorders, which may directly or indirectly affect fertility [from menstrual cycle irregularities to a lower chance of live birth after assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment]. Weight loss through nonpharmaceutical lifestyle interventions is achievable. Weight loss can normalize menstrual cycle irregularities and can increase fecundability. Pregnancy-associated risks, such as gestational diabetes can be decreased by preconception weight reduction.

SUMMARY

Weight loss through lifestyle changes (i.e., lower caloric intake and increased physical activity), may increase fecundability and may have a positive impact on the course of pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal outcomes. Accordingly, women should be motivated to reduce their weight before conception. However, the effectiveness of life-style intervention programs for women actively seeking medical support in achieving pregnancy has not convincingly been demonstrated. In the few randomized controlled trials (RCTs), selection bias for trial participation by patient motivation may have been present, yet participant attrition was still high and mean effects were small, casting doubts on the utility of such programs in routine care. Pharmacological and surgical intervention may be more effective or necessary complements to lifestyle intervention programs.

Association between cumulative dose of hydroxychloroquine and electrocardiographic abnormalities in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is one of the most used drugs in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In these patients, where heart involvement is common, cardiac HCQ toxicity may lead to fatal outcomes. The aim of this work is to study the influence of cumulative HCQ (cHCQ) in a selected group of patients with SLE and its association with electrocardiographic (EKG) abnormalities.

METHODS

Single-center retrospective, observational study in which data were collected from the medical records of consecutive patients with a diagnosis of SLE who started treatment with HCQ and who had a 12-lead EKG before starting treatment and during follow-up. EKG abnormalities were grouped as conduction or structural abnormalities. The association of cHCQ with the occurrence of EKG disturbances was analyzed together with other demographic and clinical variables through univariate and multivariate logistic regression models.

RESULTS

105 patients were selected with median cHCQ of 913 g. The sample was classified into two groups, above or below 913 g. Significantly, more conduction disturbances were observed in the group above the median (OR: 2.89; 95%CI: 1.01-8.23). In the multivariate analysis, the OR per 100 g of cHCQ dose was 1.06 (95%CI: 0.99-1.14). Age was the only variable associated with conduction disturbances. There were no significant differences in the development of structural abnormalities and a tendency for more high-grade atrioventricular block was shown.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests an association between the cHCQ and the development of EKG conduction disturbances that disappears after multivariate adjustment. No increased number of structural abnormalities was observed.

Efficacy and safety of the ghrelin-O-acyltransferase inhibitor BI 1356225 in overweight/obesity: Data from two Phase I, randomised, placebo-controlled studies

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a complex disease associated with multiple concurrent complications, and the coordinated targeting of multiple pathways in pharmacological treatment may improve weight loss outcomes. During synthesis, ghrelin is converted from the 'inactive' unacylated ghrelin (UAG) to the active acylated ghrelin (AG) by the enzyme ghrelin-O-acyltransferase (GOAT), stimulating appetite and food intake.

AIMS

To report the results of two Phase I studies investigating single rising doses (SRDs) or multiple rising doses (MRDs) of the novel oral GOAT inhibitor BI 1356225 versus placebo in male and postmenopausal/sterilised female subjects with overweight or obesity.

METHODS

The SRD study investigated single doses of BI 1356225 (0.1-20.0 mg) in healthy male subjects with a BMI of 18.5-29.9 kg/m2 (SRD cohort) and assessed doses of 2.5 mg BI 1356225 under fed and fasted conditions (bioavailability [BA] cohort). The MRD study investigated multiple doses of BI 1356225 (0.2, 1.0, 2.5 or 10.0 mg) or 5.0 mg BI 1356225 with a single dose of midazolam and celecoxib (drug-drug interaction part) over 28 days in adults with a BMI of 27.0-39.9 kg/m2.

RESULTS

Sixty-five subjects were treated in the SRD study. Drug-related adverse events (AEs) were reported for five subjects (9.1 %) in the SRD cohort and two subjects (20.0 %) in the BA cohort, with the most frequent being headache (SRD: n = 4, 9.8 %; BA: n = 1, 10.0 %). In the MRD study, two (2.3 %) of the 87 subjects treated discontinued treatment because of AEs. Drug-related AEs were reported for 18 subjects (20.7 %), did not increase with dose and were most frequently reported as headache (n = 5, 5.7 %) and gastrointestinal disorders (n = 5, 5.7 %). In both studies, exposure parameters (area under the concentration-time curve [AUC] and maximum plasma concentration [Cmax]) of BI 1356225 increased across dose groups, although this was less than dose-proportional across the entire dose range. In the BA cohort of the SRD study, AUC0-∞ was slightly increased and Cmax slightly decreased in fed versus fasted conditions, with fed/fasted ratios (90 % CI) of 101.10 % (92.42, 110.60) and 91.67 % (78.50, 107.05), respectively. In both studies, AG concentrations and the AG/UAG ratio were dose-dependently decreased after BI 1356225 treatment from baseline versus placebo. In the MRD study, UAG concentrations were increased from baseline, but not dose-dependently. No differences were observed in bodyweight, appetite, food cravings, ad libitum food uptake or obesity-related biomarkers after 28 days of treatment with BI 1356225.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with SRDs and MRDs of BI 1356225 was well tolerated by healthy males and subjects with overweight/obesity. BI 1356225 treatment over 28 days reduced AG concentrations and the AG/UAG ratio by >80 %, but no effect was seen on bodyweight, hunger/satiety, control of eating or energy intake. Although, at 4 weeks, the MRD study was fairly short, a reduction in bodyweight would be expected to be evident by this time, suggesting that a reduction of AG via a GOAT inhibitor is not sufficient to induce clinically relevant bodyweight loss.

Obesity as pleiotropic risk state for metabolic and mental health throughout life

Obesity, a highly prevalent disorder and central diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome, is linked to mental health by clinical observations and biological pathways. Patients with a diagnosis of obesity may show long-lasting increases in risk for receiving psychiatric co-diagnoses. Austrian national registry data of inpatient services from 1997 to 2014 were analyzed to detect associations between a hospital diagnosis of obesity (ICD-10: E66) and disorders grouped by level-3 ICD-10 codes. Data were stratified by age decades and associations between each pair of diagnoses were computed with the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel method, providing odds ratios (OR) and p values corrected for multiple testing. Further, directions of the associations were assessed by calculating time-order-ratios. Receiving a diagnosis of obesity significantly increased the odds for a large spectrum of psychiatric disorders across all age groups, including depression, psychosis-spectrum, anxiety, eating and personality disorders (all p_corr < 0.01, all OR > 1.5). For all co-diagnoses except for psychosis-spectrum, obesity was significantly more often the diagnosis received first. Further, significant sex differences were found for most disorders, with women showing increased risk for all disorders except schizophrenia and nicotine addiction. In addition to the well-recognized role in promoting disorders related to the metabolic syndrome and severe cardiometabolic sequalae, obesity commonly precedes severe mental health disorders. Risk is most pronounced in young age groups and particularly increased in female patients. Consequently, thorough screening for mental health problems in patients with obesity is urgently called for to allow prevention and facilitate adequate treatment.

Neuropeptides Modulate Feeding via the Dopamine Reward Pathway

Dopamine (DA) is a catecholamine neurotransmitter widely distributed in the central nervous system. It participates in various physiological functions, such as feeding, anxiety, fear, sleeping and arousal. The regulation of feeding is exceptionally complex, involving energy homeostasis and reward motivation. The reward system comprises the ventral tegmental area (VTA), nucleus accumbens (NAc), hypothalamus, and limbic system. This paper illustrates the detailed mechanisms of eight typical orexigenic and anorexic neuropeptides that regulate food intake through the reward system. According to recent literature, neuropeptides released from the hypothalamus and other brain regions regulate reward feeding predominantly through dopaminergic neurons projecting from the VTA to the NAc. In addition, their effect on the dopaminergic system is mediated by the prefrontal cortex, paraventricular thalamus, laterodorsal tegmental area, amygdala, and complex neural circuits. Research on neuropeptides involved in reward feeding can help identify more targets to treat diseases with metabolic disorders, such as obesity.

Nutritional Status, Selected Nutrients Intake, and Metabolic Disorders in Bariatric Surgery Patients

Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for obesity and its complications. However, failure to adhere to dietary recommendations can result in both unsatisfactory weight loss and metabolic disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of bariatric surgery on the anthropometric parameters and selected nutrient intake. A total of 12 months postoperatively, percent excess weight loss (%EWL) was significantly higher after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) than laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) (93.78% vs. 56.13% and 55.65%, p < 0.001). The same was true for waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (p = 0.017) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) changes (p = 0.022). There was a significant decrease in total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels after RYGB. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in daily intake was found for energy (4278.4 kcal vs. 1355.17 kcal), sucrose (122.23 g vs. 38.22 g), dietary fiber (30.90 g vs. 14.20 g), eicosapentaenoic fatty acid and docosahexaenoic acid (EPA+DHA) (142.46 mg vs. 52.90 mg) and % energy from fats (42.43% vs. 35.17%), saturated fatty acids (SAFAs) (19.96% vs. 14.11%) and alpha-linolenic fatty acid (ALA) (0.87% vs. 0.69%). Energy intake and energy % from fats positively correlated with body weight (BW), waist circumference (WC), WHR, and WHtR, and negatively with %EWL. The percentage of unsaturated fatty acids positively correlated with WC and WHR. Energy intake correlated positively with serum triglycerides (TGs) and energy % from fats and carbohydrates. Despite significant weight loss, the patient's diet deviated from recommendations and may have contributed to metabolic disorders.

Digital communication and virtual reality for extending the behavioural treatment of obesity - the patients' perspective: results of an online survey in Germany

BACKGROUND

CBT has been found effective for the treatment of EDs and obesity. However not all patients achieve clinically significant weight loss and weight regain is common. In this context, technology-based interventions can be used to enhance traditional CBT but are not yet widespread. This survey therefore explores the status quo of pathways of communication between patients and therapists, the use of digital applications for therapy as well as attitudes towards VR from the perspective of patients with obesity in Germany.

METHODS

This cross-sectional online survey was conducted in October 2020. Participants were recruited digitally through social media, obesity associations and self-help groups. The standardized questionnaire included items concerning current treatment, paths of communication with their therapists, and attitudes toward VR. The descriptive analyses were performed with Stata.

RESULTS

The 152 participants were mostly female (90%), had a mean age of 46.5 years (SD = 9.2) and an average BMI of 43.0 kg/m² (SD = 8.4). Face-to-face communication with their therapist was considered of high importance in current treatment (M = 4.30; SD = 0.86) and messenger apps were the most frequently used digital application for communication. Participants were mostly neutral regarding the inclusion of VR methods in obesity treatment (M = 3.27; SD = 1.19). Only one participant had already used VR glasses as part of treatment. Participants considered VR suitable for exercises promoting body image change (M = 3.40; SD = 1.02).

DISCUSSION

Technological approaches in obesity therapy are not widespread. Face-to-face communication remains the most important setting for treatment. Participants had low familiarity with VR but a neutral to positive attitude toward the technology. Further studies are needed to provide a clearer picture of potential treatment barriers or educational needs and to facilitate the transfer of developed VR systems into clinical practice.

Beyond Weight Loss: Added Benefits Could Guide the Choice of Anti-Obesity Medications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To highlight the added benefits of approved and upcoming, centrally-acting, anti-obesity drugs, focusing not only on the most common metabolic and cardiovascular effects but also on their less explored clinical benefits and drawbacks, in order to provide clinicians with a tool for more comprehensive, pharmacological management of obesity.

RECENT FINDINGS

Obesity is increasingly prevalent worldwide and has become a challenge for healthcare systems and societies. Reduced life expectancy and cardiometabolic complications are some of the consequences of this complex disease. Recent insights into the pathophysiology of obesity have led to the development of several promising pharmacologic targets, so that even more effective drugs are on the horizon. The perspective of having a wider range of treatments increases the chance to personalize therapy. This primarily has the potential to take advantage of the long-term use of anti-obesity medication for safe, effective and sustainable weight loss, and to concomitantly address obesity complications/comorbidities when already established. The evolving scenario of the availability of anti-obesity drugs and the increasing knowledge of their added effects on obesity complications will allow clinicians to move into a new era of precision medicine.

Analysis of Walking Economy after Sleeve Gastrectomy in Patients with Severe Obesity

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with a higher energy cost of walking which affects activities of daily living. Bariatric surgery with sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has beneficial effects on weight loss and comorbidities.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of SG on walking economy in subjects with severe obesity.

METHODS

This observational cohort study included all patients with morbid obesity who were considered suitable candidates for SG between June 2017 and June 2019. Each patient underwent an incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test on a treadmill (modified Bruce protocol) one month before and six months after SG. Data on the energy cost of walking were recorded during three protocol stages (stage 0-slow flat walking: speed 2.7 km/h, slope 0%; stage ½-slow uphill walking: speed 2.7 km/h, slope 5%; stage 1-fast uphill walking: speed 4.0 km/h, slope 8%).

RESULTS

139 patients with morbid obesity (78% women; age 44.1 ± 10.7 years; BMI 42.5 ± 4.7 kg/m²) were included in the study. At six months post-SG, patients presented with a significantly decreased body weight (-30.5 ± 17.2 kg; p < 0.05), leading to an average BMI of 31.6 ± 4.2 kg/m². The net energy cost of walking (measured in J/m and J/kg/m) of the subjects was lower compared to pre-SG at all three protocol stages. This improvement was also confirmed when the subjects were grouped by gender and obesity classes.

CONCLUSION

After a significant weight loss induced by SG, regardless of the severity of obesity and gender, patients exhibited a lower energy expenditure and an improved walking economy. These changes make it easier to perform daily routines and may facilitate an increase in physical activity.

Is the Direct Anterior Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty Effective in Obese Patients? Early Clinical and Radiographic Results from a Retrospective Comparative Study

Background and objectives: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) in obese patients (BMI > 30) is considered technically demanding, and it is associated with higher rates of general and specific complications including infections, component malpositioning, dislocation, and periprosthetic fractures. Classically, the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) has been considered less suitable for performing THA surgery in the obese patient, but recent evidence produced by high-volume DAA THA surgeons suggests that DAA is suitable and effective in obese patients. At the authors' institution, DAA is currently the preferred approach for primary and revision THA surgery, accounting for over 90% of hip surgeries without specific patient selection. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to evaluate any difference in early clinical outcomes, perioperative complications, and implant positioning after primary THAs performed via DAA in patients who were divided according to BMI. Material and methods: This study is a retrospective review of 293 THA implants in 277 patients that were performed via DAA from 1 January 2016 to 20 May 2020. Patients were further divided according to BMI: 96 patients were normal weight (NW), 115 were overweight (OW), and 82 were obese (OB). All the procedures were performed by three expert surgeons. The mean follow-up was 6 months. Patients' data, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, surgical time, days in rehab unit, pain at the second post-operative day recorded by using a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and number of blood transfusions were recorded from clinical charts and compared. Radiological evaluation of cup inclination and stem alignment was conducted on post-operative radiographs; intra- and post-operative complications at latest follow-up were recorded. Results: The average age at surgery of OB patients was significantly lower compared to NW and OW patients. The ASA score was significantly higher in OB patients compared to NW patients. Surgical time was slightly but significantly higher in OB patients (85 ± 21 min) compared to NW (79 ± 20 min, p = 0.05) and OW patients (79 ± 20 min, p = 0.029). Rehab unit discharge occurred significantly later for OB patients, averaging 8 ± 2 days compared to NW patients (7 ± 2 days, p = 0.012) and OW patients (7 ± 2 days; p = 0.032). No differences in the rate of early infections, number of blood transfusions, NRS pain at the second post-operative day, and day of post-operative stair climbing were found among the three groups. Acetabular cup inclination and stem alignment were similar among the three groups. The perioperative complication rate was 2.3%; that is, perioperative complication occurred in 7 out of 293 patients, with a significantly higher incidence of surgical revisions required in obese patients compared to the others. In fact, OB patients showed a higher revision rate (4.87%) compared to other groups, with 1.04% for NW and 0% for OW (p = 0.028, Chi-square test). Causes for revision in obese patients were aseptic loosening (2), dislocation (1), and clinically significant post-operative leg length discrepancy (1), with a revision rate of 4/82 (4.87%) during follow-up. Conclusions: THA performed via DAA in obese patients could be a solid choice of treatment, given the relatively low rate of complications and the satisfying clinical outcomes. However, surgical expertise on DAA and adequate instrumentation for this approach are required to optimise the outcomes.

Practical guideline on obesity care in patients with gastrointestinal and liver diseases - Joint ESPEN/UEG guideline

BACKGROUND

Patients with chronic gastrointestinal disease such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), pancreatitis, and chronic liver disease (CLD) often suffer from obesity because of coincidence (IBD, IBS, celiac disease) or related pathophysiology (GERD, pancreatitis and CLD). It is unclear if such patients need a particular diagnostic and treatment that differs from the needs of lean gastrointestinal patients. The present guideline addresses this question according to current knowledge and evidence.

OBJECTIVE

The present practical guideline is intended for clinicians and practitioners in general medicine, gastroenterology, surgery and other obesity management, including dietitians and focuses on obesity care in patients with chronic gastrointestinal diseases.

METHODS

The present practical guideline is the shortened version of a previously published scientific guideline developed according to the standard operating procedure for ESPEN guidelines. The content has been re-structured and transformed into flow-charts that allow a quick navigation through the text.

RESULTS

In 100 recommendations (3× A, 33× B, 24 × 0, 40× GPP, all with a consensus grade of 90% or more) care of gastrointestinal patients with obesity - including sarcopenic obesity - is addressed in a multidisciplinary way. A particular emphasis is on CLD, especially metabolic associated liver disease, since such diseases are closely related to obesity, whereas liver cirrhosis is rather associated with sarcopenic obesity. A special chapter is dedicated to obesity care in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. The guideline focuses on adults, not on children, for whom data are scarce. Whether some of the recommendations apply to children must be left to the judgment of the experienced pediatrician.

CONCLUSION

The present practical guideline offers in a condensed way evidence-based advice how to care for patients with chronic gastrointestinal diseases and concomitant obesity, an increasingly frequent constellation in clinical practice.

Nutrition and exercise interventions to improve body composition for persons with overweight or obesity near retirement age: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

The retirement phase is an opportunity to integrate healthy (nutrition/exercise) habits into daily life. We conducted this systematic review to assess which nutrition and exercise interventions most effectively improve body composition (fat/muscle mass), body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in persons with obesity/overweight near retirement age (ages 55-70). We conducted a systematic review and network-meta-analysis (NMA) of randomised controlled trials, searching four databases from their inception up to 12 July 2022. The NMA was based on a random effects model, pooled mean differences, standardised mean differences, their 95% confidence intervals, and correlations with multi-arm studies. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also conducted. 92 studies were included, 66 of which with 4957 participants could be used for the NMA. Identified interventions were clustered into 12 groups: no intervention, energy restriction (i.e. 500-1000 kcal), energy restriction plus high protein (HP) intake (1.1-1.7 g/kg/body weight), intermittent fasting, mixed exercise (aerobic and resistance), resistance training (RT), aerobic training (AT), HP plus RT, energy restriction plus HP plus exercise, energy restriction plus RT, energy restriction plus AT, and energy restriction plus mixed exercise (ME). Intervention durations ranged from 8 weeks to 6 months. Body fat was reduced with energy restriction plus any exercise or plus HP intake. Energy restriction alone was less effective and tended to decrease muscle mass. Muscle mass was only significantly increased with ME. All other interventions including exercise effectively preserved muscle mass. A BMI and/or WC decrease was achieved with all interventions except AT/RT alone or RT plus HP. Overall, the most effective strategy for nearly all outcomes was combining energy restriction with RT or ME and HP. Healthcare professionals involved in the management of persons with obesity need to be aware that an energy-restricted diet alone may contribute to sarcopenic obesity in persons near retirement age. This network meta-analysis is registered at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/as CRD42021276465.

Preoperative Optimization Before Ventral Hernia Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of ventral hernia development and recurrence rates after ventral hernia repair (VHR). The metabolic derangements caused by obesity can also lead to many postoperative complications. Therefore, it is a common practice to attempt weight loss before VHR. However, there is still no consensus on optimal preoperative management for obese patients with a ventral hernia. This study aims to perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of preoperative weight optimization on VHR outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases to identify studies comparing obese patients who underwent surgical or non-surgical weight loss interventions before undergoing hernia repair surgery to obese patients who underwent hernia repair surgery without prehabilitation. Postoperative outcomes were assessed by means of pooled analysis and meta-analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4. Heterogeneity was assessed with I 2 statistics.

RESULTS

One thousand six hundred nine studies were screened and 13 were thoroughly reviewed. Five studies comprising 465 patients undergoing hernia repair surgery were included. No differences in hernia recurrence [odds ratio (OR) 0.66; 95% CI 0.23-1.89; P =0.44; I 2 =20%], seroma (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.25-1.95; P =0.50; I 2 =5%), hematoma (OR 2.00; 95% CI 0.5-7.94; P =0.45; I 2 =0%), surgical site infection (OR 1.96; 95% CI 0.52-7.40; P =0.32; I 2 =0%), and overall complication (OR 0.80; 95% CI 0.37-1.74; P =0.58; I 2 =40%) rates were noted when comparing patients who underwent a preoperative weight loss intervention (prehabilitation or bariatric surgery) versus those who did not. In the subgroup analysis of patients who underwent bariatric surgery, we found no difference in hernia recurrence (OR 0.64; 95% CI 0.12-3.33; P = 0.59; I 2 =41%) or overall complications (OR 1.14; 95% CI 0.36-3.64; P =0.82; I 2 =64%). In the subgroup analysis of patients who lost weight versus patients who did not, there was no significant difference in overall complication rates (OR 0.86; 95% CI 0.34-2.21; P =0.76; I 2 =55%).

CONCLUSIONS

We found similar hernia recurrence, seroma, hematoma, and surgical site infection rates in patients who underwent preoperative optimization. These findings underline the need for prospective studies to define the optimal role of preoperative optimization and weight loss in obese patients undergoing ventral hernia repair.

Tirzepatide versus semaglutide for weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A value for money analysis

AIMS

Higher doses of the glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist semaglutide and, more recently, tirzepatide, a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist showed a significant reduction in body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, their comparative value for money for this indication is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to establish which provides better value for money.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We calculated the cost needed to treat to achieve a 1% reduction in body weight using high-dose tirzepatide (15 mg) versus semaglutide (2.4 mg). The body weight reductions were extracted from published results of SURMOUNT-1 and STEP 1 trials, respectively. In addition, we performed a scenario analysis to mitigate the primary differences between the two study populations. Drug costs were based on US GoodRx prices as of October 2022.

RESULTS

Using tirzepatide resulted in a weight loss of 17.8% (95% CI: 16.3%-19.3%) compared with 12.4% (95% CI: 11.5%-13.4%) for semaglutide. The total cost of 72 weeks of tirzepatide was estimated at $17 527 compared with $22 878 for 68 weeks of semaglutide. Accordingly, the cost needed to treat per 1% of body weight reduction with tirzepatide is estimated at $985 (95% CI: $908-$1075) compared with $1845 (95% CI: $1707-$1989) with semaglutide. Scenario analysis confirmed these findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Tirzepatide provides better value for money than semaglutide for weight reduction.

Contemporary medical, device, and surgical therapies for obesity in adults

The goal of obesity management is to improve health. Sustained weight loss of more than 10% overall bodyweight improves many of the complications associated with obesity (eg, prevention and control of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver disease, and obstructive sleep apnoea), as well as quality of life. Maintenance of weight loss is the major challenge of obesity management. Like all chronic diseases, managing obesity requires a long-term, multimodal approach, taking into account each individual's treatment goals, and the benefit and risk of different therapies. In conjunction with lifestyle interventions, anti-obesity medications and bariatric surgery improve the maintenance of weight loss and associated health gains. Most available anti-obesity medications act on central appetite pathways to reduce hunger and food reward. In the past 5 years, therapeutic advances have seen the development of targeted treatments for monogenic obesities and a new generation of anti-obesity medications. These highly effective anti-obesity medications are associated with weight losses of more than 10% of overall bodyweight in more than two-thirds of clinical trial participants. Long-term data on safety, efficacy, and cardiovascular outcomes are awaited. Long-term studies have shown that bariatric surgical procedures typically lead to a durable weight loss of 25% and rapid, sustained improvements in complications of obesity, although they have not yet been compared with new-generation highly effective anti-obesity medications. Further work is required to determine optimal patient-specific treatment strategies, including combinations of lifestyle interventions, anti-obesity medications, endoscopic and bariatric surgical procedures, and to ensure equitable access to effective treatments.

Evaluation and Treatment of Obesity and Its Comorbidities: 2022 Update of Clinical Practice Guidelines for Obesity by the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity

The goal of the 8th edition of the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Obesity is to help primary care physician provide safe, effective care to patients with obesity by offering evidence-based recommendations to improve the quality of treatment. The Committee for Clinical Practice Guidelines comprised individuals with multidisciplinary expertise in obesity management. A steering board of seven experts oversaw the entire project. Recommendations were developed as the answers to key questions formulated in patient/problem, intervention, comparison, outcomes (PICO) format. Guidelines underwent multi-level review and cross-checking and received endorsement from relevant scientific societies. This edition of the guidelines includes criteria for diagnosing obesity, abdominal obesity, and metabolic syndrome; evaluation of obesity and its complications; weight loss goals; and treatment options such as diet, exercise, behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric and metabolic surgery for Korean people with obesity. Compared to the previous edition of the guidelines, the current edition includes five new topics to keep up with the constantly evolving field of obesity: diagnosis of obesity, obesity in women, obesity in patients with mental illness, weight maintenance after weight loss, and the use of information and communication technology-based interventions for obesity treatment. This edition of the guidelines features has improved organization, more clearly linking key questions in PICO format to recommendations and key references. We are confident that these new Clinical Practice Guidelines for Obesity will be a valuable resource for all healthcare professionals as they describe the most current and evidence-based treatment options for obesity in a well-organized format.