Two presentations from the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions questioned whether or not an obesity paradox exists. One study examined the relationship of BMI with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. Another studied BMI, type 2 diabetes, and acute decompensated heart failure. Finally, researchers looked at the association of BMI in younger adulthood and cumulative burden of all-cause and CV morbidity through older adulthood.
AHA 2016: Obesity Paradox in Heart Failure
Is There Really an “Obesity Paradox: in Heart Failure? An Analysis of PARADIGM-HF
Does an obesity paradox exist in heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (REF)?
Obese study participants did not have better outcomes regarding heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, possible due to a more extensive adjustment for other variables in this study than in previous studies.
Severe Obesity, but not Overweight, Is Associated with Short- and Long-Term Decreased Mortality in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Hospitalized for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: Findings from the Gulf-CARE
Is there an obesity paradox between BMI, type 2 diabetes, and acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF)?
A U-shaped relationship between BMI and mortality was not found in patients with T2DM; obese patients, especially severely obese, had significantly decreased long-term mortality risks.
Excess All-Cause and Cardiovascular Morbidity Associated with Overweight and Obesity: Findings from the Chicago Heart Detection Project in Industry Study
What is the association of BMI in younger adulthood and cumulative burden of all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) morbidity through older adulthood?
Younger adults with excess weight had higher levels of all-cause & CV morbidity from age 65-90 and higher cumulative morbidity burden, stressing the importance of maintaining ideal body weight.
