Increases in morbid obesity in the USA: 2000-2005

Tissue-specificity and ethnic diversity in obesity-related risk of cancer may be explained by variability in insulin response and insulin signaling pathways

Obesity is a predisposing risk factor for several chronic diseases. The link between obesity and cancer appears to be particularly complex. Notably only the risk for development of specific cancers appear to be affected. Moreover, the obesity-related risk of cancer is very different across ethnic groups. African-Americans appear particularly prone, whereas Hispanics appear to be relatively protected. Obesity is associated with increased levels of circulating insulin. These levels of elevated insulin may serve to promote proliferation of fat cells to accommodate the elevated nutrient flux. However, elevated levels of insulin may be a major mediating factor influencing cancer risk. This hypothesis alone cannot explain the complexity of the phenomenon. We suggest here that the different insulin responses to obesity of different ethnic groups may explain their different risk profiles. Moreover, we speculate that tissue-specific variations in the insulin signaling pathways may underlie their differential susceptibility to tumorigenesis in the face of elevated obesity. Elevated cancer risk may be an unwanted side effect of insulin responding to elevated nutrient flux in the obese which it serves to proliferate fat cells that provide a location for storage of ingested fat, which consequently prevents ectopic fat storage. Hence, while Hispanics may be protected from cancer risk in obesity because of their lower insulin response, they have an elevated risk of fatty liver disease. Reduction of insulin levels in obesity as a strategy to reduce cancer risk may pose additional problems unless it is combined also with interventions that aim to limit nutrient influx.

Micronutrient deficiencies after bariatric surgery

It has been estimated that approximately 220,000 people with morbid obesity underwent bariatric surgery in 2008. Modification of the gastrointestinal tract affects absorption and health care professionals counseling bariatric patients need to be aware of possible micronutrient deficiencies and their symptoms. A systematic review of several databases and bariatric surgery center websites on the Internet was conducted from January 1980 to July 2009 to identify literature related to micronutrient deficiencies occurring after bariatric surgery. Keywords used individually or in combination were bariatric surgery, obesity, vitamin/mineral deficiencies, altered gastrointestinal function, nutrient absorption, nutrient supplementation, and metabolic complications, and were variously combined in the search list. Based on this review, all patients scheduled for bariatric surgery should receive daily multivitamin and multitrace mineral supplements. The literature suggests that bariatric surgery patients are at risk for deficiency of the following nutrients after surgery: vitamins B(12), B(1), C, folate, A, D, and K, along with the trace minerals iron, selenium, zinc, and copper. Over-the-counter multivitamin and mineral supplements do not provide adequate amounts of certain nutrients such as vitamin B(12), iron, or fat-soluble vitamins and patients will require additional doses of prophylactic supplementation life-long to maintain optimal micronutrient status. In addition, preconception care for adequate prenatal supplementation is critical for pregnant women who have undergone bariatric surgery, as iron, vitamin A, vitamin B(12), vitamin K, and folate deficiencies are associated with maternal and fetal complications, including severe anemia, congenital abnormalities, low birth weight, and failure to thrive. All bariatric surgery patients would be best served by receiving regular monitoring of serum nutrient levels starting at 3 mo after surgery and periodically thereafter.

Contraceptive use among women with a history of bariatric surgery: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Weight loss after bariatric surgery often improves fertility but can pose substantial risks to maternal and fetal outcomes. Women who have undergone a bariatric surgical procedure are currently advised to delay conception for up to 2 years.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a systematic review of the literature, from database (PubMed) inception through February 2009, to evaluate evidence on the safety and effectiveness of contraceptive use among women with a history of bariatric surgery.

RESULTS

From 29 articles, five met review inclusion criteria. One prospective, noncomparative study reported 2 pregnancies among 9 (22%) oral contraceptive (OC) users following biliopancreatic diversion, and one descriptive study reported no pregnancies among an unidentified number of women taking OCs following laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Of two pharmacokinetic studies, one found lower plasma levels of norethisterone and levonorgestrel among women having had a jejunoileal bypass, as compared to nonoperated, normal-weight controls. The other study found no difference in plasma levels of D-norgestrel between women having a jejunoileal bypass of either 1:3 or 3:1 ratio between the length of jejunum and ileum left in continuity, but women with a 1:3 ratio had significantly higher plasma levels of D-norgestrel than extremely obese controls not operated upon.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence regarding OC effectiveness following a bariatric surgical procedure is quite limited, although no substantial decrease in effectiveness was identified from available studies. Evidence on failure rates for other contraceptive methods and evidence on safety for all contraceptive methods was not identified.

Long-term outcome of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation for obesity hypoventilation syndrome

BACKGROUND

Few data are available on the long-term outcome of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) for obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). This study was designed to determine long-term survival, treatment adherence, and prognostic factors in patients with OHS in whom NPPV was initiated in an acute setting vs under stable clinical conditions.

METHODS

One hundred thirty consecutive patients with OHS (56 women) who started NPPV between January 1995 and December 2006 either under stable conditions (stable group, n = 92) or during ICU management of acute hypercapnic exacerbation (acute group, n = 38) were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Arterial blood gases and the Epworth sleepiness scale were both significantly improved after 6 months of NPPV. With a mean follow-up of 4.1 +/- 2.9 years, 24 (18.5%) patients died and 24 (18.5%) discontinued NPPV. On Kaplan-Meier analysis, 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-year survival probabilities were 97.5%, 93%, 88.3%, and 77.3%, respectively. Mortality was lower than that described in a previous series of patients with untreated OHS. Supplemental oxygen therapy was the only independent predictor of mortality. The probability of continuing NPPV was 80% at 3 years with a high rate of daily use ( > 7 h). Female sex was predictive of lower long-term adherence to NPPV. The acute and stable groups did not differ in terms of arterial blood gases and Epworth sleepiness scale at 6 months, long-term survival, and treatment adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study support long-term NPPV as an effective and well-tolerated treatment of OHS whether initiated in the acute or chronic setting.

Duodenal switch provides superior resolution of metabolic comorbidities independent of weight loss in the super-obese (BMI > or = 50 kg/m2) compared with gastric bypass

OBJECTIVE

Increased body mass index is associated with greater incidence and severity of obesity-related comorbidities and inadequate postbariatric surgery weight loss. Accordingly, comorbidity resolution is an important measure of surgical outcome in super-obese individuals. We previously reported superior weight loss in super-obese patients following duodenal switch (DS) compared to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in a large single institution series. We now report follow-up comparison of comorbidity resolution and correlation with weight loss.

METHODS

Data from patients undergoing DS and RYGB between August 2002 and October 2005 were prospectively collected and used to identify super-obese patients with diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Ali-Wolfe scoring was used to describe comorbidity severity. Chi-square analysis was used to compare resolution and two-sample t tests used to compare weight loss between patients whose comorbidities resolved and persisted.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty super-obese patients [DS (n=198), RYGB (n=152)] were identified. Incidence and severity of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and GERD was comparable in both groups while diabetes was less common but more severe in the DS group (24.2% vs. 35.5%, Ali-Wolfe 3.27 vs. 2.94, p<0.05). Diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia resolution was greater at 36 months for DS (diabetes, 100% vs. 60%; hypertension, 68.0% vs. 38.6%; dyslipidemia, 72% vs. 26.3%), while GERD resolution was greater for RYGB (76.9% vs. 48.57%; p<0.05). There were no differences in weight loss between comorbidity "resolvers" and "persisters".

CONCLUSIONS

In comparison to RYGB, DS provides superior resolution of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia in the super-obese independent of weight loss.

Do health beliefs and behaviors differ according to severity of obesity? A qualitative study of Australian adults

Public responses to obesity have focused on providing standardized messages and supports to all obese individuals, but there is limited understanding of the impact of these messages on obese adults. This descriptive qualitative study using in-depth interviews and a thematic method of analysis, compares the health beliefs and behaviors of 141 Australian adults with mild to moderate (BMI 30-39.9) and severe (BMI > or = 40) obesity. Mildly obese individuals felt little need to change their health behaviors or to lose weight for health reasons. Most believed they could "lose weight" if they needed to, distanced themselves from the word obesity, and stigmatized those "fatter" than themselves. Severely obese individuals felt an urgent need to change their health behaviors, but felt powerless to do so. They blamed themselves for their weight, used stereotypical language to describe their health behaviors, and described being "at war" with their bodies. Further research, particularly about the role of stigma and stereotyping, is needed to fully understand the impact of obesity messaging on the health beliefs, behaviors, and wellbeing of obese and severely obese adults.

Taxonomy and imaging spectrum of small bowel obstruction after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery

OBJECTIVE

For most patients with morbid obesity, bariatric surgery is the only effective method to achieve sustainable weight loss. Small bowel obstruction (SBO) after bariatric surgery is a major complication that affects postoperative course and management. Knowledge of the types of and imaging findings for SBO is essential to prompt diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

We discuss different types of SBO and a taxonomic schemata of bowel obstruction (ABC classification) and present a review of imaging findings that facilitates optimal patient management.

BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2 is associated with a younger age of onset of overweight and a high prevalence of adverse metabolic profiles

Objective

To study the demographic and clinical parameters of three different categories of obesity, with particular focus on a cohort of individuals with BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2, the fastest growing category of obesity.

Design

Over 700 obese individuals were studied (186 with BMI = 30–39 kg/m2, 316 with BMI = 40–49 kg/m2 and 290 with BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2).

Results

Median BMI was 51 kg/m2 for patients who reported onset of overweight before 15 years of age, 47 kg/m2 for patients who reported onset between 15 and 30 years, and 42 kg/m2 for patients who became overweight after 30 years of age. The BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2 group was notably younger than the group with BMI = 30–39 kg/m2 (44 (sd 11) years v. 50 (sd 15) years; P < 0·0001). Eighteen per cent of obese patients studied were considered metabolically healthy according to standard cut-off points for blood pressure, fasting glucose and lipid profiles. However, the proportion of metabolically healthy individuals was significantly higher in the BMI = 30–39 kg/m2 group than in the BMI = 40–49 kg/m2 and BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2 groups (31 % v. 17 % and 12 % respectively; P < 0·05 and P < 0·005). When compared with people of similar age in the general population, individuals with BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2 had lower rates of marriage (51 % v. 72 %) and a higher prevalence of unemployment (14 % v. 5 %).

Conclusions

The current study suggests that the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity worldwide will lead to many more individuals achieving a higher BMI at a younger age. Furthermore, an earlier onset of overweight does not appear to prevent the adverse metabolic health outcomes associated with extreme obesity.

Evaluation of clinical outcomes for gastric bypass surgery: results from a comprehensive follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGB) surgery markedly increases percent excess weight loss (%EWL) and obesity-related co-morbidities. However, poor study quality and minimal exploration of clinical, behavioral, and psychosocial mechanisms of weight loss have characterized research to date.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive assessment of n = 100 LGB patients surveyed 2-3 years following surgery using standardized measures.

RESULTS

Mean %EWL at follow-up was 59.1 ± 17.2%. This high level of weight loss was associated with a low rate of metabolic syndrome (10.6%), although medications were commonly used to achieve control. Mean adherence to daily vitamin and mineral supplements important to the management of LGB was only 57.6%, and suboptimal blood chemistry levels were found for ferritin (32% of patients), hematocrit (27%), thiamine (25%), and vitamin D (19%). Aerobic exercise level (R (2) = 0.08) and pre-surgical weight (R (2) = 0.04) were significantly associated with %EWL, but recommended eating style, fluid intake, clinic follow-up, and support group attendance were not. Psychosocial adjustment results showed an absence of symptomatic depression (0%), common use of antidepressant medications (32.0%), low emotional distress related to the post-surgical lifestyle (19.8 ± 14.0; scale range 0-100), a high level of perceived benefit from weight loss in terms of functioning and emotional well-being (82.7 ± 17.9; scale range 0-100), and a change in marital status for 26% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

At 2-3 years following LGB surgery aerobic exercise, but not diet, fluid intake, or attendance at clinic visits or support groups, is associated with %EWL. Depression is symptomatically controlled by medications, lifestyle related distress is low, and marital status is significantly impacted.

The pickwickian syndrome-obesity hypoventilation syndrome

Obesity-hypoventilation syndrome (OHS), also historically described as the Pickwickian syndrome, consists of the triad of obesity, sleep disordered breathing, and chronic hypercapnia during wakefulness in the absence of other known causes of hypercapnia. Its exact prevalence is unknown, but it has been estimated that 10% to 20% of obese patients with obstructive sleep apnea have hypercapnia. OHS often remains undiagnosed until late in the course of the disease. Early recognition is important because these patients have significant morbidity and mortality. Effective treatment can lead to significant improvement in patient outcomes, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis. The authors review the definition and epidemiology of OHS, in addition to the current multifaceted understanding of the pathophysiology, and provide useful clinical approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

The obesity epidemic

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the United States, with 35.1% of adults being classified as obese. Obesity affects every segment of the US population and continues to increase steadily, especially in children. Obesity increases the risk for many other chronic diseases, including diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and decreases overall quality of life. The current US generation may have a shorter life expectancy than their parents if the obesity epidemic is not controlled, and there is no indication that the prevalence of obesity is decreasing. Because of the complexity of obesity, it is likely to be one of the most difficult public health issues our society has faced.

Big breathing: the complex interaction of obesity, hypoventilation, weight loss, and respiratory function

Obesity places a significant load on the respiratory system, affecting lung volumes, respiratory muscle function, work of breathing, and ventilatory control. Despite this, most morbidly obese individuals maintain eucapnia. However, a subgroup of morbidly obese individuals will develop chronic daytime hypercapnia, described as the obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). While obesity is obviously a crucial component of this syndrome, the relationship between excess fat accumulation and the development of awake hypercapnia is complex and extends beyond simply impairments of pulmonary mechanics and lung volumes as a consequence of obesity. Various compensatory mechanisms operate to maintain eucapnia even in the presence of extreme obesity. However, if compensation is impaired, hypoventilation will ensue. While obesity alone does not account for the development of hypoventilation, weight loss will produce significant improvements in lung function and awake gas exchange. Such improvements have the potential to substantially reduce morbidity and mortality in these individuals. Nevertheless, many individuals remain overweight despite substantial weight loss, with persistence of upper airway obstruction. Attention to this residual abnormality is important given the high incidence of cardiovascular abnormalities, including pulmonary hypertension, in individuals with OHS.

Lifestyle interventions for the treatment of class III obesity: a primary target for nutrition medicine in the obesity epidemic

Although rates of obesity have increased universally in the United States over the past 30 y, it is clear that certain individuals are more susceptible to weight gain than others. Extreme obesity [body mass index (in kg/m(2)) > 40] is increasing at rates greater than any other class of obesity in the United States. Severely obese patients often suffer from a wide variety of comorbidities. Although weight-loss surgery is the most effective treatment, it offers little in the way of large-scale containment due to its costly and invasive nature. Lifestyle interventions that induce modest weight loss and improve fitness can significantly lower disease risk. As medical professionals in the field of nutrition, we must focus first on the patient cohort that suffers most from the modern obesogenic environment. Lifestyle interventions specifically targeted toward the class III obese cohort should be a high priority in nutrition medicine.

BMI and mortality: results from a national longitudinal study of Canadian adults

Although a clear risk of mortality is associated with obesity, the risk of mortality associated with overweight is equivocal. The objective of this study is to estimate the relationship between BMI and all-cause mortality in a nationally representative sample of Canadian adults. A sample of 11,326 respondents aged >or=25 in the 1994/1995 National Population Health Survey (Canada) was studied using Cox proportional hazards models. A significant increased risk of mortality over the 12 years of follow-up was observed for underweight (BMI <18.5; relative risk (RR) = 1.73, P < 0.001) and obesity class II+ (BMI >35; RR = 1.36, P <0.05). Overweight (BMI 25 to <30) was associated with a significantly decreased risk of death (RR = 0.83, P < 0.05). The RR was close to one for obesity class I (BMI 30-35; RR = 0.95, P >0.05). Our results are similar to those from other recent studies, confirming that underweight and obesity class II+ are clear risk factors for mortality, and showing that when compared to the acceptable BMI category, overweight appears to be protective against mortality. Obesity class I was not associated with an increased risk of mortality.

The causes, prevalence, and treatment of obesity revisited in 2009: what have we learned so far?

Obesity is a chronic disease that is increasing in prevalence in the United States and worldwide and is often accompanied by multiple comorbidities that lead to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In April 2009, the American Society for Nutrition hosted the symposium "An Integrative View of Obesity" at Experimental Biology 2009 in New Orleans, LA. The presentations addressed the causes of the obesity epidemic and notably discussed a combination of genetics, obesogenic environment, cultural and racial concerns, and treatment modalities based on what we have learned from research into the physiology and neuroendocrine regulation of appetite and satiety. The fat cell as an endocrine organ, in addition to contributions from the gut and pancreas, has helped us to understand the origins of this neuroendocrine regulation as a survival advantage in human ancestry, with obesogenic ramifications in today's toxic food environment. Suggestions for the reversal of the obesity epidemic were offered, including public health campaigns, community and medical programs, and industry-supported change in our food supply, eating patterns, and lifestyle. Community-structured programs for exercise and work-related physical activity could also engage a healthier lifestyle into the typical day for the average American as well as for individuals in other countries.

The Role of Physical Activity Participation in Weight Loss Outcomes Following Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery (WLS) is an effective intervention for the reduction of body mass and the resolution of obesity-related comorbidities. Excess weight loss following WLS has been reported in the range of 40% to 78% depending on the surgery type and the follow-up time period. Initial weight loss outcomes and weight loss maintenance have been shown to depend on several factors, including the type of surgical procedure, preexisting comorbidities, and compliance with postoperative medical, nutritional, and behavioral recommendations. One factor that has received limited attention in the scientific literature is the role of physical activity in initial weight loss and maintenance following WLS. Physical activity participation of sufficient frequency, intensity, and duration during both the pre- and postoperative time periods has the potential to reduce surgical complications, enhance weight loss outcomes, and improve physical fitness and overall health following WLS. In addition, physical activity has the potential to improve the quality of postoperative weight loss by enhancing fat mass loss while preserving fat-free mass, thereby minimizing the impact of massive weight loss on metabolic rate. In light of these potential benefits, appropriate interventions should be employed to promote physical activity participation of appropriate frequency, intensity, and duration both before and after WLS.

The common FTO variant rs9939609 is not associated with BMI in a longitudinal study on a cohort of Swedish men born 1920-1924

Background

Common FTO (fat mass and obesity associated) gene variants have recently been strongly associated with body mass index and obesity in several large studies. Here we set out to examine the association of the FTO variant rs9939609 with BMI in a 32 year follow up study of men born 1920-1924. Moreover, we analyzed the effect of physical activity on the different genotypes.

Methods

The FTO rs9936609 was genotyped using an Illumina golden gate assay. BMI was calculated using standard methods and body fat was estimated by measuring skinfold thickness using a Harpenden caliper. Physical activity was assessed using a four question medical questionnaire.

Results

FTO rs9939609 was genotyped in 1153 elderly Swedish men taking part of a population-based cohort study, the ULSAM cohort. The risk of obesity and differences in BMI according to genotype at the ages of 50, 60, 70, 77 and 82 were investigated. We found no increased risk of obesity and no association with BMI at any age with the FTO rs9939609 variant. We found however interaction between physical activity at the age of 50 years and genotype on BMI levels (p = 0.039) and there was a clear trend towards larger BMI differences between the TT and AA carriers as well as between AT and AA carriers in the less physically active subjects.

Conclusion

Here we found that the well established obesity risk allele for a common variant in FTO does not associate with increased BMI levels in a Swedish population of adult men which reached adulthood before the appearance of today's obesogenic enviroment. There is an interaction between physical activity and the effect of the FTO genotype on BMI levels suggesting that lack of physical activity is a requirement for an association of FTO gene variants to obesity.

Fasting plasma glucose in the screening for type 2 diabetes in morbidly obese subjects

BACKGROUND

Higher mortality rates among morbidly obese (BMI of > or =40 or > or =35 kg/m2 with weight-related comorbidities) subjects are mainly explained by comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes. As bariatric surgery ameliorates diabetes, obese diabetic subjects will receive great benefits from bariatric surgery. Screening for diabetes prior to surgical referral is therefore crucial.

METHODS

We studied 1,253 consecutively recruited (2005-2008) morbidly obese subjects (67% women). Among subjects without known diabetes, 70% (670/961) performed an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Screen-detected diabetes was defined as fasting plasma glucose (fPG) > or =7.0 mmol/l and/or 2-h glucose concentration (2hPG) > or = 11.1 mmol/l.

RESULTS

Within the study population, 31% had diabetes, of which 8% were screen-detected. Eighty percent of those with screen-detected diabetes were diagnosed by fPG. In subjects with nondiabetic fPG concentrations, elevating the fPG cutoff value from 5.2 mmol/l to the World Health Organization's (WHO's) recommended value of 6.1 mmol/l reduced the percentage of the population needing an OGTT considerably (78-23%), but only slightly reduced the sensitivity of fPG in detecting a diabetic 2hPG concentration (100-77%). Only 7% of the patients with fPG between 6.1 and 6.9 mmol/l had a diabetic 2hPG concentration. Following the WHO's recommendations, we found that 95% of all subjects with unknown diabetes were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Fasting glucose identified four out of five morbidly obese subjects with unknown diabetes. A supplemental OGTT in selected persons identified the majority of the remaining diabetic cases.

Obesity: is it a mental disorder?

OBJECTIVE

Using Wakefield's conceptualization of mental disorder as "harmful mental dysfunction" (Wakefield, Am Psychol, 47, 373-388, 1992), we examined the evidence for including obesity as a mental disorder in DSM-V.

METHOD

We searched computer databases and examined reference lists from review articles published in the last 10 years to identify empirical papers relevant to the present review.

RESULTS

Obesity is a condition of heterogeneous etiology that is harmful for most individuals. However, there is scant evidence that obesity, in general, is caused by mental dysfunction. Although recent work examining the neurocircuitry of energy balance has suggested that mental dysfunction may be involved in the etiology of specific obesity phenotypes, findings are too preliminary to support classification of obesity as a mental disorder. Nevertheless, there is evidence that obesity is related to mental disorder and many of the medications used to treat psychiatric illness.

DISCUSSION

There is little evidence for including obesity as a mental disorder in DSM-V. However, results confirm the importance of monitoring adiposity routinely among patients with psychiatric illness.

Psychosocial factors and the pain experience of osteoarthritis patients: new findings and new directions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The present paper reviews recent psychosocial research in the area of osteoarthritis pain. First, the review highlights studies of psychosocial factors that can influence osteoarthritis pain. Next, research testing the efficacy of psychosocial treatments for osteoarthritis pain is summarized.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies suggest that asking osteoarthritis patients to recall pain experiences may not be as accurate as having them keep daily pain records. New studies also support the notion that fatigue and increased weight are linked to higher osteoarthritis pain. Osteoarthritis patients who report higher levels of depression are more prone to report increased osteoarthritis pain. New studies also indicate that social factors such as ethnic background, ability to communicate pain to others, and participation in social activities can influence osteoarthritis pain and disability. Cognitions about pain (i.e. pain catastrophizing, acceptance, self-efficacy for pain) also have been found to relate to pain in patients with osteoarthritis. Recent, randomized controlled studies suggest that psychosocial interventions (i.e. self-management programs, exercise) can decrease osteoarthritis pain and disability.

SUMMARY

Several psychosocial variables have been suggested as influencing osteoarthritis pain and disability. There is evidence that psychosocial interventions may decrease osteoarthritis pain and disability.

Trends in BMI of urban Australian adults, 1980-2000

OBJECTIVE

To analyse changes in the distribution of BMI in Australia between 1980 and 2000.

DESIGN

Data were from the 1980, 1983 and 1989 National Heart Foundation Risk Factor Prevalence Study, the 1995 National Nutrition Survey and the 1999/2000 Australian Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle Study. Survey participants were aged 25-64 years and resident in Australian capital cities. BMI was calculated as weight divided by height squared (kg/m2), where weight and height were measured using standard procedures.

RESULTS

Mean BMI was higher in 2000 than 1980 in all sex and age groups. The age-adjusted increase was 1.4 kg/m2 in men and 2.1 kg/m2 in women. The BMI distribution shifted rightwards for all sex and age groups and became increasingly right-skewed. The change between 1980 and 2000 ranged from a decrease of 0.04 kg/m2 at the lower end of the distribution for men aged 25-34 years to an increase of 7.4 kg/m2 at the higher end for women aged 55-64 years. While the prevalence of obesity (BMI >or= 30 kg/m2) doubled, the prevalence of obesity class III (BMI >or= 40 kg/m2) increased fourfold.

CONCLUSIONS

BMI in urban Australian adults has increased and its distribution has become increasingly right-skewed. This has resulted in a large increase in the prevalence of obesity, particularly the more severe levels of obesity. It will be important to monitor changes in the different classes of obesity and the extent to which obesity interventions both shift the BMI distribution leftwards and decrease the skew of the distribution.

Objective quantification of physical activity in bariatric surgery candidates and normal-weight controls

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) is an important component of weight loss programs and should be encouraged for severely obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery. However, few studies have determined the amount and intensity of activities undertaken preoperatively by bariatric surgery patients using objective measures.

METHODS

Using RT3 tri-axial accelerometers, the present study compared 38 bariatric surgery candidates and 20 normal weight controls on activity counts/hr; the number of minutes daily spent in moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) and vigorous intensity PA; and the level of compliance with national recommendations to accumulate 150 min/wk of MVPA in bouts of > or = 10 minutes.

RESULTS

Surgery candidates, compared with controls, recorded significantly (P <.01) fewer activity counts/hr (13,799 +/- 3758 counts/hr versus 19,462 +/- 4259 counts/hr) and spent fewer minutes per day engaged in MVPA (26.4 +/- 23.0 min/d versus 52.4 +/- 24.7 min/d) and vigorous PA (1.2 +/- 3.4 min/d vs 11.8 +/- 9.0 min/d). More than two thirds (68%) of the surgery candidates versus 13% of the normal weight controls did not accumulate any MVPA in bouts of > or = 10 minutes and only 4.5% of obese patients met the weekly MVPA recommendation versus 40% of the controls.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study have shown that bariatric surgery candidates have low PA levels and rarely engage in PA bouts of sufficient duration and intensity to maintain and improve health. Additional research is needed to determine how best to increase PA in bariatric surgery candidates.

Improvement in glucose metabolism after bariatric surgery: comparison of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a prospective randomized trial

BACKGROUND

The exclusion of the proximal small intestine is thought to play a major role in the rapid improvement in the metabolic control of diabetes after gastric bypass.

OBJECTIVE

In this randomized, prospective, parallel group study, we sought to evaluate and compare the effects of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) with those of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on fasting, and meal-stimulated insulin, glucose, and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels.

METHODS

Thirteen patients were randomized to LRYGB and 14 patients to LSG. The mostly nondiabetic patients were evaluated before, and 1 week and 3 months after surgery. A standard test meal was given after an overnight fast, and blood samples were collected before and after food intake in both groups for insulin, GLP-1, glucose, PYY, and ghrelin concentrations. This trial was registered in www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00356213) before the first patient was randomized.

RESULTS

Body weight and body mass index decreased markedly (P < 0.002) and comparably after either procedure. Excess BMI loss was similar at 3 months (43.3 +/- 12.1% vs. 39.4 +/- 9.4%, P > 0.36). After surgery, patients had markedly increased postprandial plasma insulin and GLP-1 levels, respectively (P < 0.01) after both of these surgical procedures, which favor improved glucose homeostasis. Compared with LSG, LRYGB patients had early and augmented insulin responses as early as 1-week postoperative; potentially mediating improved early glycemic control. After 3 months, no significant difference was observed with respect to insulin and GLP-1 secretion between the 2 procedures.

CONCLUSION

Both procedures markedly improved glucose homeostasis: insulin, GLP-1, and PYY levels increased similarly after either procedure. Our results do not support the idea that the proximal small intestine mediates the improvement in glucose homeostasis.

Medical versus surgical interventions for the metabolic complications of obesity in children

The global epidemic of obesity has not spared children. Although prevention of obesity is commendable, we cannot hide from the pressing need to identify, assess, and actively manage children seriously afflicted by obesity and its associated conditions. Sustained weight loss (or, for children, lowering of body mass index standard deviation score) delivers major health benefit, but in children has been difficult to achieve. In adults, the success of the diabetes prevention programs using practical lifestyle interventions is indisputable. Medical therapy, although currently limited in it scope, provides some promise for older children. There is now accumulating evidence, generally of poor quality that surgical interventions (laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) provide excellent sustained weight loss and improvement in comorbidity and quality of life in selected older children. Their benefits in adults are well demonstrated. Surgery comes with risk, both immediate and in the future, as does severe obesity. Carefully weighing risk and benefit is challenging for the individual and for health service providers. Careful health outcomes research with registries and well-conducted trials will provide better direction in the future. In the meantime, we should move forward ethically and cautiously in providing more intensive obesity management in children.

Physical therapists' attitudes, knowledge, and practice approaches regarding people who are obese

BACKGROUND

Little is known about physical therapists' attitudes, knowledge, and practice approaches regarding people who are obese.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to determine physical therapists' attitudes, knowledge, and practice approaches regarding obesity and to explore the relationships between attitudes and knowledge.

DESIGN

A prospective paper mail survey was designed to obtain demographic characteristics, attitudes, knowledge, and practice approaches regarding obesity. Participants were randomly selected members of the American Physical Therapy Association.

METHODS

Descriptive statistics were used to explore physical therapists' attitudes, knowledge, and practice approaches regarding obesity. Pearson product moment and Spearman rank correlations were used to test the relationships between attitudes and knowledge. The a priori alpha value was set at .05.

RESULTS

The response rate was 34.5%. Physical therapists indicated that physical inactivity (92.8%, n=320) and overeating (78.5%, n=270) are the most important causes of obesity and that diet modifications and exercise are the most effective treatments. Respondents frequently recommended exercising more (87.4%, n=263) but rarely recommended changes in nutritional habits or referred clients to other health care disciplines. Attitude scores regarding obesity were neutral. The mean knowledge score was 6.7 (of 10). A significant correlation (r=.133, P=.043) was found between the respondents' knowledge scores and attitudes regarding statements about obesity. Inverse correlations were seen between the respondents' age and knowledge scores (r=-.195, P<.0005) and between years in practice and knowledge scores (r= -.216, P<.0005).

LIMITATIONS

The descriptive nature of this study did not allow for further investigation. The survey questionnaire was adapted from a nonvalidated tool.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggested that physical therapists have neutral attitudes toward people who are obese. Physical therapists appropriately indicated that lack of physical activity and poor nutritional habits contribute to obesity. Younger respondents, who had recently entered the work force, had higher knowledge scores than respondents who were older and had worked longer. Improvements in physical therapists' referral patterns may assist in the health care team approach to the treatment of obesity. Education to enhance physical therapists' knowledge about obesity should be emphasized.

The genetic contribution to non-syndromic human obesity

The last few years have seen major advances in common non-syndromic obesity research, much of it the result of genetic studies. This Review outlines the competing hypotheses about the mechanisms underlying the genetic and physiological basis of obesity, and then examines the recent explosion of genetic association studies that have yielded insights into obesity, both at the candidate gene level and the genome-wide level. With obesity genetics now entering the post-genome-wide association scan era, the obvious question is how to improve the results obtained so far using single nucleotide polymorphism markers and how to move successfully into the other areas of genomic variation that may be associated with common obesity.

Obesity and incremental hospital charges among patients with and without diabetes in the United States

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to estimate the association between obesity and diabetes among inpatients in the United States as well as to investigate the incremental hospital charges attributable to obesity or morbid obesity.

METHODS

We analyzed the Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2005, a nationally representative probability sample that includes nearly 8 million inpatient records from US community hospitals.

RESULTS

During the past decade, the obesity among inpatients has steeply increased. In 2005, nearly 1.87 million hospitalizations were made by obese or morbidly obese patients. Both patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes were considerably more likely to be obese or morbidly obese compared with inpatients without diabetes (P < 0.01). The proportions of hospitalizations with obese or morbidly obese conditions were 4.5% among patients without diabetes, 6.5% among patients with type 1, and 12.2% among patients with type 2 diabetes. The hospital charges for obese and morbidly obese patients were 6.1% (P < 0.01) and 18.7% (P < 0.01) higher than that of the nonobese patients when diabetes status, sex, age, race, hospital admission type, and length of hospital stays were the same.

CONCLUSIONS

Following a parallel rise in obesity among the general population, hospital admissions of obese and morbidly obese inpatients are continuously increasing. Morbidly obese patients consumed substantially more hospital resources regardless of the presence or type of diabetes. Under the current price-per-case reimbursement system, additional hospital resource use by this growing number of morbidly obese inpatients could be a burden to hospital financial systems.

Expert panel on weight loss surgery: executive report update

Rapid shifts in the demographics and techniques of weight loss surgery (WLS) have led to new issues, new data, new concerns, and new challenges. In 2004, this journal published comprehensive evidence-based guidelines on WLS. In this issue, we've updated those guidelines to assure patient safety in this fast-changing field. WLS involves a uniquely vulnerable population in need of specialized resources and ongoing multidisciplinary care. Timely best-practice updates are required to identify new risks, develop strategies to address them, and optimize treatment. Findings in these reports are based on a comprehensive review of the most current literature on WLS; they directly link patient safety to methods for setting evidence-based guidelines developed from peer-reviewed scientific publications. Among other outcomes, these reports show that WLS reduces chronic disease risk factors, improves health, and confers a survival benefit on those who undergo it. The literature also shows that laparoscopy has displaced open surgery as the predominant approach; that government agencies and insurers only reimburse procedures performed at accredited WLS centers; that best practice care requires close collaboration between members of a multidisciplinary team; and that new and existing facilities require wide-ranging changes to accommodate growing numbers of severely obese patients. More than 100 specialists from across the state of Massachusetts and across the many disciplines involved in WLS came together to develop these new standards. We expect them to have far-reaching effects of the development of health care policy and the practice of WLS.

Best practice updates for surgical care in weight loss surgery

To update evidence-based best practice guidelines for surgical care in weight loss surgery (WLS). Systematic search of English-language literature on WLS in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library between April 2004 and May 2007. Use of key words to narrow the search for a selective review of abstracts, retrieval of full articles, and grading of evidence according to systems used in established evidence-based models. Evidence-based best practice recommendations from the most recent literature on surgical methods and technologies, risks and benefits, outcomes, and surgeon qualifications and credentialing. We identified >135 articles; the 65 most relevant were reviewed in detail. Regular updates of evidence-based recommendations for best practices in WLS are required to address rapid changes in surgical techniques and patient demographics. Key factors in patient safety include surgical risk factors, type of procedure, surgeon training, and facility certification.

Pre- and postsurgery behavioral compliance, patient health, and postbariatric surgical weight loss

This study investigated the relationship between weight loss from gastric bypass surgery, patient characteristics, and compliance with physician instructions before and after surgery. A chart review of psychiatric and medical files was conducted for an initial cohort of 172 patients in a postsurgical management program. A total of 112 patients (primarily women (85%), white (79%), and well educated) from this cohort had presurgical data. Of these 112 subjects, 67 (60%) had postsurgical compliance information and BMI at 24 months postsurgery. The relationships between weight loss and a number of demographic, psychiatric, comorbid, and behavioral compliance factors were examined for these 67 patients. Missed appointments and noncompliance with exercise and weight loss plan instructions were high before and after surgery (65% vs. 72% for missed appointments, 39% vs. 51% for exercise, 42% vs. 57% for weight loss instructions). Although poor food choices were not frequently a problem before surgery (11%), they increased significantly after surgery: 37%, chi(2)(1) = 25.00, P < 0.001. Participants who lost the least weight at 2 years postsurgery were more likely to be nonwhite (r = 0.27, P = 0.039), have a lower socioeconomic status (SES) (r = 0.285, P = 0.02), and have a diagnosis of binge eating before surgery (r = 0.25, P = 0.039). Having more contact with patients and requiring adherence to behavioral changes, especially with respect to exercise and dietary restrictions, may improve the long-term outcomes for bariatric procedures. In addition, those patients who are depressed and suffer from binge eating may need special attention from physicians during long-term postoperative follow-up.

Best practices in policy and access (coding and reimbursement) for weight loss surgery

To update evidence-based best practice guidelines for coding and reimbursement and establish policy and access standards for weight loss surgery (WLS). Systematic search of English-language literature on WLS and health-care policy, access, insurance reimbursement, coding, private payers, public policy, and mandated benefits published between April 2004 and May 2007 in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. Use of key words to narrow the search for a selective review of abstracts, retrieval of full articles, and grading of evidence according to systems used in established evidence-based models. We identified 51 publications in our literature search; the 20 most relevant were examined in detail. These included reviews, cost-benefit analyses, and trend and cost studies from administrative databases. Literature on policy issues surrounding WLS are very sparse and largely focused on economic analyses. Reports on policy initiatives in the public and private arenas are primarily limited to narrative reviews of nonsurgical efforts to fight obesity. A substantial body of work shows that WLS improves or reverses most obesity-related comorbidities. Mounting evidence also indicates that WLS confers a significant survival advantage for those who undergo it. WLS is a viable and cost-effective treatment for an increasingly common disease, and policy decisions are more frequently being linked to incentives for national health-care goals. However, access to WLS often varies by payer and region. Currently, there are no uniform criteria for determining patient appropriateness for surgery.

Factors associated with BMI change over five years in a Swedish adult population. Results from the Scania Public Health Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

On account of the increasing worldwide problems associated with overweight and obesity, the aim of the present study was to examine BMI change over 5 years in relation to different lifestyle-, demographic- and psychosocial work-related factors.

METHODS

A cohort of 9913 persons responded to an identical survey in 2000 and 2005. BMI change over the period was examined in relation to gender, age, educational level, physical activity, job strain, and baseline BMI.

RESULTS

Mean BMI as well as prevalence of overweight and obesity increased in the cohort; most among younger persons. In all groups but younger women, BMI increase was greatest in the lowest baseline BMI quartile. Low education was associated with increased BMI at baseline, but not with BMI change over time except among young women. Exercisers had lower BMI than non-exercising persons, and exercise pattern over time was also significantly associated with BMI change. The greatest BMI increase was found among exercise drop-outs, while those who had taken up exercise during the study period were the only group who did not show a significant BMI increase over the study period. Job strain showed inconsistent associations with BMI change.

CONCLUSIONS

Although socioeconomic differences in BMI were observed, these inequalities did not appear to be increasing, except among young women. Persons with a low initial BMI increased more in weight than persons with a high initial BMI. Exercise behaviour appeared to be an important factor for maintaining, or avoiding heavy increase in, BMI.

Prediction of leisure-time physical activity among obese individuals

The aims of this study were to identify (i) what cognitions predict leisure-time physical activity and (ii) the moderators of cognition-behavior relationships among obese individuals. A sample of 91 adults (BMI >or=30 kg/m(2)) completed a baseline questionnaire assessing variables of the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Biological measures and socio-demographic variables were also obtained. Behavior was assessed 3 months later. Multiple hierarchical regression analyses indicated that significant variables predicting behavior were past behavior (beta = 0.39; P = 0.0001), intention (beta = 0.27; P = 0.03), and the interaction term "perceived behavioral control (PBC) x perceived built environment" (beta = 0.17; P = 0.05). The PBC-behavior relation was better when the built environment was perceived as favorable to physical activity. The model explained 41% of variance in behavior. The determinants explaining intention were PBC (beta = 0.55; P < 0.0001), anticipated regret (beta = 0.26; P = 0.0007), and past behavior (beta = 0.22; P = 0.005), accounting for 59% of variance. Participation in leisure-time physical activity is explained primarily by a person's intentions to perform this behavior. The results also suggest that people are more able to translate their perception of control into action if they perceive the built environment as favorable, although this additional gain in prediction is small relative to intention. Nonetheless, both cognitions and aspects of the built environment should be given consideration in the promotion of leisure-time physical activity among obese individuals.

American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, The Obesity Society, and American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery medical guidelines for clinical practice for the perioperative nutritional, metabolic, and nonsurgical support of the bariatric surgery patient

American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, The Obesity Society, and American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery Medical Guidelines for Clinical Practice are systematically developed statements to assist health-care professionals in medical decision making for specific clinical conditions. Most of the content herein is based on literature reviews. In areas of uncertainty, professional judgment was applied. These guidelines are a working document that reflects the state of the field at the time of publication. Because rapid changes in this area are expected, periodic revisions are inevitable. We encourage medical professionals to use this information in conjunction with their best clinical judgment. The presented recommendations may not be appropriate in all situations. Any decision by practitioners to apply these guidelines must be made in light of local resources and individual patient circumstances. The American Society for Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition fully endorses sections of these guidelines that address the metabolic and nutritional management of the bariatric surgical patient.

Pain catastrophizing in borderline morbidly obese and morbidly obese individuals with osteoarthritic knee pain

OBJECTIVE

There is limited information about how morbidly obese osteoarthritis (OA) patients cope with the pain they experience. Pain catastrophizing is an important predictor of pain and adjustment in persons with persistent pain. This may be particularly relevant in the morbidly obese (body mass index [BMI] of 40 kg/m(2) or greater) OA population at risk for increased pain. The present study first examined whether borderline morbidly obese and morbidly obese OA patients report higher levels of pain catastrophizing than a sample of OA patients in the overweight and obese category (BMI between 25 kg/m(2) and 34 kg/m(2)). Next, it examined how pain catastrophizing is related to important indexes of pain and adjustment in borderline morbidly obese and morbidly obese OA patients.

METHODS

Participants included 43 individuals with knee OA who were borderline morbidly obese or morbidly obese (BMI of 38 kg/m(2) or greater). Participants completed self-report measures of pain catastrophizing, pain, psychological distress, quality of life, binge eating and eating self-efficacy.

RESULTS

The sample of borderline morbidly obese and morbidly obese OA patients reported significantly higher levels of pain catastrophizing (P=0.007) than a comparison sample of overweight and obese OA patients. Results suggested that patients who engaged in a high level of pain catastrophizing reported having much more intense and unpleasant pain, higher levels of binge eating, lower self-efficacy for controlling their eating and lower weight-related quality of life (P<0.05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Pain catastrophizing is related to pain and adjustment in borderline morbidly obese and morbidly obese OA patients. Clinicians working with this population should consider assessing pain catastrophizing in the patients they treat.

Temporal obesity trends in patients undergoing transthoracic echocardiography 2002-2006

In a recent data brief, the National Center for Health Statistics reported that obesity prevalence has plateaued in recent years, with no increase in obesity from 2003 to 2006. We have subjectively observed a marked increase in clinically severe obesity over this same period in patients presenting to our echocardiographic laboratory. The aim of this study was to determine temporal trends in obesity prevalence in patients presenting for transthoracic echocardiographic studies. A retrospective database analysis was performed using the Cardiovascular Consultants (Kansas City, Missouri) database (ProSolv Cardiovascular, Indianapolis, Indiana). The height and weight of patients who underwent transthoracic echocardiography in 2002 (n = 10,804) and 2006 (n = 17,556) were obtained. Body mass index was calculated as weight/height squared. Patients were grouped into 1 of 6 body mass index categories (underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese, morbidly obese, or super obese). Continuous variables were compared using Student's t test, and categorical variables were compared using chi-square test. In the 2 years, approximately (1/3) of patients were normal weight and (1/3) of patients were overweight. Obesity prevalence increased significantly (by nearly 8%) over the study period, with 28.1% of patients in the obese category by 2006. Clinically severe obesity (morbidly obese and super obese) increased dramatically from 2002 to 2006 (16%, p <0.008, and 41.7%, p <0.001, increases, respectively). In conclusion, clinically severe obesity has markedly increased in our midwestern echocardiographic laboratory in the period from 2002 to 2006.

[Mechanical ventilation of morbidly obese patients in anaesthesia and intensive care]

Sculptures from the Stone Age hint at the possibility that morbidly obese humans have always existed. Today, obesity represents a global epidemic with far-reaching consequences affecting health systems worldwide. Increasingly often, anaesthetists and intensivists are challenged with the treatment of extremely obese patients perioperatively. In addition to insufficient logistics and inappropriate technical equipment, the large number of obesity-related diseases, combined with the distinct pathophysiological changes of the respiratory system, put the morbidly obese patient at a significantly increased risk of perioperative complications. If, however, elaborate logistics and adequate airway management--followed by lung protective mechanical ventilation--are combined with appropriately conducted anaesthesia and intensive care, the morbidly obese patients' intensive care survival rates and hospital survival rates can be similar to those of patients of normal weight.