Many medical professionals believe that obesity and heart disease are indirectly related. They contribute to significant risk factors for such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and arteriosclerosis to the degree of obesity of a given person. While obesity is a contributing factor for many of these health conditions studies are now suggesting that there is a more direct relationship between these diseases.



What is the Relationship?

Recent medical studies suggest that while obesity can affect many risk factors associated with the health of your heart the two also have a direct relationship in that obesity can be a predictive indicator of heart disease. In a fourteen year study it was indicated that middle-aged women with a BMI index of greater than twenty-three but less than twenty-five still had an approximate 50% increase in the risk of both fatal and non-fatal coronary heart disease. This indicates a clear, direct connection between these two diseases.

Another factor that may suggest severe obesity and heart disease are more directly related is that of abnormalities in the left ventricular mass and function of the heart. While in the majority of cases, these abnormalities are seen in the presence of both hypertension and obesity there are recorded cases where these abnormalities are seen without hypertension being apparent. In these cases the only condition that appears to have a significant affect on condition of the heart is severe obesity. This information suggests that obesity and heart disease are directly linked and can definitely lead to heart failure.

Available Treatments

Since a connection either direct or indirect has long been established between obesity and heart disease, the medical profession has developed a number of methods over the years to positively impact these two related health problems.

In certain patients with congestive heart failure for instance it was determined that sodium reduction in the diet and even a small reduction in weight has the potential to dramatically improve the function of the heart leading to reduced risk of heart disease. In fact a number of studies have indicated that a drastic weight loss such as after gastro-intestinal surgery can greatly decrease the occurrence of each of these diseases as well as insulin based diabetes.

There are a number of methods available today to treat both obesity and heart disease. These can include changes in diet and exercise practices, medication, and sometimes even surgery. Only you and your doctor can decide what choice is right for you. Whatever method is chosen the connection between these diseases are becoming more clear everyday. With a little knowledge and a plan you can improve your health and have a positive impact on the nations obesity crisis.

To Your Healthy Heart!