August 3, 2026Open Access
Obesity and Cardiovascular Diseases
Key Result
Overweight and mildly obese patients with cardiovascular diseases appear to have a better prognosis than their leaner counterparts, highlighting the obesity paradox.
Key Points
- The aim is to explore the relationship between obesity and cardiovascular diseases, including the obesity paradox.
- Reviewed epidemiological data on obesity and cardiovascular diseases.
- Analyzed the effects of physical activity and fitness on obesity-related outcomes.
- Discussed the implications of weight loss and fitness improvement.
- Mild obesity and overweight individuals with cardiovascular diseases show improved survival rates.
- Declines in physical activity over five decades have contributed to the obesity epidemic.
- Better prognosis in mildly obese patients is noted compared to lean individuals.
PICO
P
Population
Cardiovascular diseases and obesity
E
Exposure / Comparator
Overweight and mild obesity vs Leaner counterparts
Abstract
Obesity has been increasing in epidemic proportions, with a disproportionately higher increase in morbid or class III obesity, and obesity adversely affects cardiovascular (CV) hemodynamics, structure, and function, as well as increases the prevalence of most CV diseases. Progressive declines in physical activity over 5 decades have occurred and have primarily caused the obesity epidemic. Despite the potential adverse impact of overweight and obesity, recent epidemiological data have demonstrated an association of mild obesity and, particularly, overweight on improved survival. We review in detail the obesity paradox in CV diseases where overweight and at least mildly obese patients with most CV diseases seem to have a better prognosis than do their leaner counterparts. The implications of cardiorespiratory fitness with prognosis are discussed, along with the joint impact of fitness and adiposity on the obesity paradox. Finally, in light of the obesity paradox, the potential value of purposeful weight loss and increased physical activity to affect levels of fitness is reviewed.