Untreated obesity, a growing health crisis – experts

Health experts on Tuesday warned that delaying treatment for obesity, described as “a growing health crisis,” could increase the prevalence of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic (CKM) diseases.

The call was led by the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM), noting that more than 39.8% of Filipino adults are classified as obese and 17.3% are overweight.

Experts warned that these conditions significantly increase the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney diseases (CKD), which rank among the top causes of mortality among Filipinos based on recent data.

“Obesity is more than just a lifestyle problem; it’s a chronic disease that is often overlooked and influenced by factors like genetics, eating habits, and our environment,” Dr. Elaine C. Cunanan, vice president of PCEDM, said in a statement.

The call was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed by PCEDM, the Philippine Heart Association (PHA), the Philippine Society of Nephrology (PSN), and the Philippine Association for the Study of Overweight and Obesity (PASOO).

The partnership signaled a coordinated, multi-specialty effort to curb obesity and prevent its associated life-threatening complications.

Ms. Cunanan said the collaboration marked a united front among specialists against obesity, which they described as a growing health crisis.

“Through this alliance, we aim to raise awareness and encourage Filipinos to take proactive steps toward better health, preventing obesity from progressing to serious CKM complications,” she said.

Health experts urged legislators to integrate obesity care at all levels of the health system and to foster environments that make healthy choices easier for Filipinos.

They also emphasized the importance of coordinated and proactive action to reduce the burden of obesity in the country.

Meanwhile, health experts in their respective specializations warned of complications driven by obesity.

Dr. Lourdes Ella G. Santos, a cardiologist and Director I at PHA, said more young Filipino adults are being diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension, mainly driven by obesity.

“Excess weight puts a dangerous strain on the heart and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes,” Ms. Santos said in a statement.

Obesity is also a major contributor to the development of CKD, according to Dr. Ricardo A. Francisco, a kidney specialist and president of PSN.

“Kidney damage develops silently, so most people discover problems only at an advanced stage, when dialysis or a transplant may be needed,” Dr. Francisco said.
He noted that prevention includes awareness and regular screening to detect problems early.

Dr. Nemencio A. Nicodemus, president of the Philippine College of Physicians, also linked obesity to the development of fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and cancers of the breast, colon, and prostate

Early and sustained intervention is emphasized by Dr. Luzviminda S. Katigbak, president of PASOO, through the adoption of healthy habits and regular screening.

She also said that better access to healthcare and strong support networks are essential for effective prevention and treatment of obesity.

The unified advocacy is themed “8 Billion Reasons to Act on Obesity: Stronger Heart, Healthier Kidneys, Better Diabetes Control,” in observance of Philippines Health Month, World Obesity Day, and World Kidney Day. — Edg Adrian A. Eva