Blood glucose health has declined in obese adults; experts predict cardiovascular and type 2 diabetes concerns.
+ Technology/Innovation
Amanda Rupp | Jul 17, 2016

Blood glucose problems in obese adults could cause cardiovascular concerns, type 2 diabetes

According to the American Heart Association (AHA) Rapid Access Journal Report, blood glucose health has declined in obese adults, increasing the risk these adults face of developing cardiovascular health problems and type 2 diabetes.

These health concerns are on the rise even though obese adults have shown progress in reducing their cholesterol and blood pressure levels overall.

“Diabetes places patients at very high risk for heart attack and coronary death,” Dr. Timothy Garvey, study co-author and chair of the Department of Nutrition Sciences at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, said. “Obese adults at high risk for diabetes and heart disease may require more intense approaches to control blood sugar and achieve weight loss, such as healthy meal plans and physical activity.”

Research shows that controlling weight among obese adults can decrease their chances of developing type 2 diabetes. As such, it should be a public health priority for the U.S.

“The adverse impact of obesity on blood sugar status appears to develop over a longer period of time, and the population is still experiencing progressive worsening of glycemic status,” Dr. Fangjian Guo, study co-author and assistant professor at the University of Texas in Galveston, said. “If blood sugar goes high too often, it can overwork the body’s ability to keep blood sugar in healthy ranges increasing the risk of developing diabetes complications.”

Organizations in this story

More News