Obesity in heart failure: impact on survival and treatment modalities

Heart failure (HF) and obesity are commonly seen in the USA. Although obesity is associated with traditional cardiovascular disease, its relationship with HF is complex. Obesity is an accepted risk factor for incident HF. However, in patients with established HF, there exists a paradoxical correlation, with escalating BMI incrementally protective against adverse outcomes. Despite this relationship, patients with HF may desire to lose weight to reduce comorbidities or to improve quality of life. Thus far, studies have shown that intentional weight loss in obese patients with HF does not increase risk, with strategies including dietary modification, physical activity, pharmacotherapy, and/or surgical intervention.