Obesity continues to be a global pandemic. According to the World Health Organization, in 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight and 650 million had obesity (body mass index [BMI] > 30). Obesity has been linked to increased risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), mobility issues, and certain types of cancer (eg, adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, postmenopausal breast, colon, rectum). Unbalanced energy intake is a root cause of obesity, with underlying factors of genetic, environmental, socioeconomic, psychological, and behavioral etiology. Morphologic fat distribution varies in obesity. Here we discuss different types of obesity and adipose tissue, how disruption to hunger pathways affects energy balance, and factors that influence obesity.
Central Obesity
Central obesity, also referred to as visceral or abdominal obesity, is an accumulation of excess fat around the abdominal area. This type of obesity is associated with a higher risk for health issues, particularly type 2 diabetes and CVD. Central obesity is more common in men than women and can be caused by a multitude of factors, specifically hormonal imbalance (eg, hypercortisolism seen in Cushing syndrome), along with stress and poor lifestyle choicesCentral weight distribution is particularly concerning because the fat accumulates around internal organs and is metabolically active, increasing the risk for
