Search

Obesity is a multifaceted chronic condition with several contributing causes, including biological risk factors, socioeconomic status, health literacy, and numerous environmental influences. Of particular concern are the increasing rates of obesity in children and adolescents, as rates of obesity in youth in the United States have tripled within the last three decades. Youth from historically disadvantaged backgrounds tend to have higher rates of obesity compared to other groups. Adolescents often do not meet intake recommendations for certain food groups and nutrients, which may contribute to a heightened risk of obesity. With obesity disproportionately affecting adolescents (ages 12-19 years), negative effects of excess adiposity may be particularly salient during this critical period of development. The presentation of chronic cardiometabolic disease symptoms typically observed in adults, such as hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and inflammation, are becoming increasingly common in adolescents with obesity. Additionally, there is dynamic interplay between obesity and psychosocial health, as adolescents with obesity may have increased levels of stress, depressive symptoms, and reduced resilience. To reduce and prevent adolescent obesity, the implementation of theory-driven multicomponent school- and community-based interventions have been suggested. These interventions promote knowledge and self-efficacy for healthful practices that have the potential to progress to sustained behavior change.

Abstract Background Obesity remains a public health problem worldwide. The high prevalence of this condition in the population raises further concerns, considering that comorbidities are often associated with obesity. Among the comorbidities closely associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome (MS) is particularly important, which potentially increases the risk of manifestation of other disorders, such as the prothrombotic and systemic pro-inflammatory states. Methods A randomized, controlled clinical trial was performed involving female patients (n = 32) aged between 18 and 65 years, with a clinical diagnosis of MS, with severe obesity undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The study design followed the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement (CONSORT). Lipid profile, blood glucose and adipokines (adiponectin, leptin, and resistin) and (cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, and TNF-α) in blood plasma samples were evaluated before and six months after RYGB. Results Patients undergoing RYGB (BSG) showed a significant improvement from preoperative grade III obesity to postoperative grade I obesity. The results showed that while HDL levels increased, the other parameters showed a significant reduction in their postoperative values when compared not only to the values observed before surgery in the BSG group, but also to the values obtained in the control group (CG). As for systemic inflammatory markers adiponectin, leptin, resistin, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23 and TNF- α it was observed that the levels of resistin and IL-17 in the second evaluation increased significantly when compared to the levels observed in the first evaluation in the CG. In the BSG group, while the levels of adiponectin increased, the levels of the other markers showed significant reductions in the postoperative period, in relation to the respective preoperative levels. The analysis of Spearman’s correlation coefficient showed a significant positive correlation between IL-17 and IL-23 in the preoperative period, significant positive correlations between TNF-α and IL-6, TNF-α and IL-17, IL-6 and IL-17, and IL-17 and IL-23 were observed postoperatively. Conclusions According to our results, the reduction of anthropometric measurements induced by RYGB, significantly improves not only the plasma biochemical parameters (lipid profile and glycemia), but also the systemic inflammatory status of severely obese patients with MS. Trials registration NCT02409160

Abstract Background Obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance are three pathological conditions highly correlated, but this relationship is not fully elucidated. Hence, we aimed to assess the association of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis with different measures of insulin sensitivity in patients with severe obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods A cross-sectional study (Oseberg trial) including patients with T2DM referred for bariatric surgery at Vestfold Hospital Trust, Norway. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) test was used for estimation of liver fat fraction (LFF) and degree of fibrosis, respectively. Oral and intravenous glucose tolerance tests were applied for estimation of insulin sensitivity (HOMA2S, Matsuda ISI and MinMod SI). Results A total of 100 patients (mean [SD] age 47.5 [9.7] years, 65% women, BMI 42.0 [5.3] kg/m2 and 98% with metabolic syndrome) were included in the analyses. The mean (SD) LFF in the total population was 19.1 (11.5), and the mean (SD) ELF score was 8.46 (0.84), a value representing moderate fibrosis. LFF was inversely associated with HOMA2S and Matsuda ISI, and both measures were significantly higher in the no or low-grade steatosis group compared with the medium-to-high grade steatosis group (mean difference [95% CI] 5.9 [2.2-9.6]%, Cohen’s d = 0.75), and (0.7 [0.3-1.1], Cohen’s d = 0.80, respectively). There was no association between LFF, as a categorical or continuous variable, and MinMod SI. The proportions of patients with none to mild fibrosis, moderate fibrosis and severe fibrosis were 14, 78 and 6%, respectively, and there were no significant associations between level of fibrosis and measures of insulin sensitivity. Conclusions Patients with morbid obesity and T2DM demonstrated high levels of liver fat fraction, and we showed that hepatic steatosis, but not the degree of liver fibrosis, was associated with different measures of insulin sensitivity in patients with severe obesity and T2DM. Further, our results might indicate that the LFF is primarily associated with hepatic, and not peripheral insulin sensitivity. To improve the diagnosis of NAFLD and the prediction of its progression, more studies are needed to reveal the pathological mechanistic pathways involved in NAFLD and insulin sensitivity. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01778738

Abstract Background Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have high circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels which is correlated with antral follicle count and polycystic ovarian morphology and negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI). Moreover, diet-induced weight loss in women with PCOS and overweight or obesity, reduce or normalize AMH-levels. There is, however, no previous study investigating the circulating AMH levels in women with severe obesity and how a structured diet-induced weight loss program affects circulating AMH levels in these women. Therefore, this study aims to investigate circulating AMH levels in a population of women with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) with and without PCOS, as diagnosed by the NIH-criteria, and to investigate the effect of a one-year weight loss program with a very low-energy diet (VLED) on circulating levels of AMH. Methods In a prospective cohort-study, were 246 women with severe obesity were screened for PCOS diagnosis with the NIH-criteria, circulating AMH and anthropometry were measured at baseline and after a 12-month weight loss intervention with very low-energy diet (VLED). Results Mean BMI was 39.9 ± 4.7 (PCOS), 39.6 ± 4.3 (non-PCOS) P = 0.960. Circulating AMH was higher in women with PCOS (5.47 ± 4.89 µg/L) compared with non-PCOS (2.66 ± 3.71 µg/L) P

Abstract Introduction This study examined problematic eating and eating‐related psychopathology among young adults who underwent adolescent bariatric surgery including concurrent and prospective associations with psychosocial factors and weight change. Methods VIEW point is a 6‐year follow‐up study within a prospective observational study series observing adolescents with severe obesity who had bariatric surgery (n = 139) or who presented to nonsurgical lifestyle modification programs (n = 83). Participants completed height/weight measurements, questionnaires, and diagnostic interviews. Regression analyses compared problematic eating across groups and examined Year 6 correlates (i.e., psychosocial factors and weight change) and baseline predictors (i.e., psychosocial factors) of eating‐related psychopathology. Results Compared to the nonsurgical group, the surgical group reported lower eating‐related psychopathology, objective binge eating, and grazing at Year 6. While chewing/spitting out and vomiting for weight/shape‐related reasons were very infrequent for the surgical group, self‐induced vomiting for other reasons (e.g., avoid plugging) was more common. For the surgical group, lower self‐worth, greater internalizing symptoms, and higher weight‐related teasing in adolescence predicted increased eating‐related psychopathology in young adulthood. Year 6 eating‐related psychopathology was concurrently associated with lower percent weight loss for the surgical group and greater percent weight gain for the nonsurgical group. Conclusion Undergoing adolescent bariatric surgery appears to afford benefit for problematic eating and eating‐related psychopathology. Current findings suggest that the clinical intervention related to problematic eating and associated psychosocial concerns may be needed for young adults with obesity, regardless of surgical status.

Abstract Background Approximately 15 million people in the UK live with obesity, around 5 million of whom have severe obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥35kg/m2). Having severe obesity markedly compromises health, well-being and quality of life, and substantially reduces life expectancy. These adverse outcomes are prevented or ameliorated by weight loss, for which sustained behavioural change is the cornerstone of treatment. Although NHS specialist ‘Tier 3’ Weight Management Services (T3WMS) support people with severe obesity, using individual and group-based treatment, the current evidence on optimal intervention design and outcomes is limited. Due to heterogeneity of severe obesity, there is a need to tailor treatment to address individual needs. Despite this heterogeneity, there are good reasons to suspect that a structured group-based behavioural intervention may be more effective and cost-effective for the treatment of severe obesity compared to usual care. The aims of this study are to test the feasibility of establishing and delivering a multi-centre randomised controlled clinical trial to compare a group-based behavioural intervention versus usual care in people with severe obesity. Methods This feasibility randomised controlled study is a partially clustered multi-centre trial of PROGROUP (a novel group-based behavioural intervention) versus usual care. Adults ≥18 years of age who have been newly referred to and accepted by NHS T3WMS will be eligible if they have a BMI ≥40, or ≥35 kg/m2 with comorbidity, are suitable for group-based care and are willing to be randomised. Exclusion criteria are participation in another weight management study, planned bariatric surgery during the trial, and unwillingness or inability to attend group sessions. Outcome assessors will be blinded to treatment allocation and success of blinding will be evaluated. Clinical measures will be collected at baseline, 6 and 12 months post-randomisation. Secondary outcome measures will be self-reported and collected remotely. Process and economic evaluations will be conducted. Discussion This randomised feasibility study has been designed to test all the required research procedures and additionally explore three key issues; the feasibility of implementing a complex trial at participating NHS T3WMS, training the multidisciplinary healthcare teams in a standard intervention, and the acceptability of a group intervention for these particularly complex patients. Trial registration ISRCTN number 22088800.

Background The co-presentation of severe obesity (SO) and global developmental delay (GDD) in Canadian preschool children has not been examined. However, SO and GDD may require syndromic diagnoses and unique management considerations. Objectives To determine (1) minimum incidence; (2) age of onset and risk factors; and (3) health care utilization for co-presenting SO and GDD. Methods Through the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program (CPSP), a monthly form was distributed to participants from February 2018 to January 2020 asking for reports of new cases of SO and GDD among children ≤5 years of age. We performed descriptive statistics for quantitative questions and qualitative content analysis for open-ended questions. Results Forty-seven cases (64% male; 51% white; mean age: 3.5 ± 1.2 years) were included. Age of first weight concern was 2.5 ± 1.3 years and age of GDD diagnosis was 2.7 ± 1.4 years. Minimum incidence of SO and GDD was 3.3 cases per 100,000 for ≤5 years of age per year. Identified problems included school and/or behavioural problems (n = 17; 36%), snoring (n = 14; 30%), and asthma/recurrent wheeze (n = 10; 21%). Mothers of 32% of cases (n = 15) had obesity and 21% of cases (n = 10) received neonatal intensive care. Microarray was ordered for 57% (n = 27) of children. A variety of clinicians and services were accessed. As reported by CPSP participants, challenges faced by families and health service access were barriers to care. Conclusion Children with SO and GDD have multiple comorbidities, and require early identification and referral to appropriate services. These cases may also benefit from additional testing to rule out known genetic obesity syndromes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe obesity (SO) can accelerate atherosclerosis and the onset of acute cardiovascular events. The diagnosis of atherosclerosis in the context of a high body mass index (BMI) can be challenging, making the identification of biomarkers clinically relevant. We aimed to assess the usefulness of irisin as a biomarker for subclinical atherosclerosis in participants with SO. This prospective observational study included 61 participants undergoing bariatric surgery for SO, defined as a BMI >40 kg/m2 or >35 kg/m2 with at least one comorbidity. Atherosclerotic plaques were detected by ultrasound. Plasma samples were obtained 1 month before and at 6 and 12 months after bariatric surgery to measure irisin by ELISA. Additionally, subcutaneous samples of adipose tissue were taken and genotyped to identify irisin polymorphism rs3480. Irisin levels were positively correlated with BMI (r = 0.23, p = 0.0064), negatively correlated with atheroma-related parameters (e.g., carotid intima-media thickness), and lower in subjects with atheroma (p < 0.0002). Irisin also showed good overall accuracy for discriminating plaque presence (AUC, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.6956–0.9156). However, the rs3480 polymorphism correlated with neither the irisin levels nor the presence of atheromas. Iirisin could identify subclinical atherosclerosis in SO and might facilitate clinical diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the prevalence of obesity in the general population and its perioperative implications among children undergoing inpatient surgeries are well known, little is known about obesity prevalence among children scheduled for ambulatory surgery. Aims: Here, we report the trends of obesity and severe obesity among children who underwent ambulatory surgery across multiple centers in the United States and explore the association of obesity status with admission following elective ambulatory surgery. Materials and Methods: Using data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program‐Pediatric (2012–2019), we selected children 2–18 years old who underwent outpatient surgical procedures under general anesthesia and had documented height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) data. We estimated the prevalence of overweight, obesity (class 1), and severe obesity (class 2 and class 3) patients and explored their association with same‐day hospital admission, defined as hospital length of stay ≥1 day. Results: Data from 152 918 children (mean age: 9.7 ± 4.7 years) were analyzed. Of these, 16.4% (n = 25 007) were overweight, 13.8% (n = 21 085) were class 1 obese, 5.2% (n = 7879) were class 2 obese, and 3.0% (n = 4623) were class 3 obese. From 2012 to 2019, class 2 or 3 obesity prevalence increased by 26.7% and 32.5%, respectively. Overweight and obese children had relatively higher odds of same‐day hospital admission compared to healthy weight children (overweight odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.05 [1.02, 1.08]; class 1 obesity: 1.04 [1.00, 1.07]; class 2 obesity: 1.09 [1.02, 1.16]; class 3 obesity: 1.20 [1.11, 1.30]). Discusion and Conclusion: The burden of obesity continues to increase in children scheduled for ambulatory surgery. Children with class 2 and class 3 obesity have higher rates of same‐day hospital admission following elective ambulatory surgery compared to healthy weight children, a factor that should be considered in scheduling these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze whether changes in RMR 6 months after RYGB could be a predictor of weight loss on late follow-up. Methods: Prospective study of 45 individuals submitted to RYGB in a university tertiary care hospital. Body composition was evaluated by bioelectrical impedance analysis and RMR by indirect calorimetry before (T0), 6 (T1), and 36 months (T2) after surgery. Results: RMR/day was lower in T1 (1.552 ± 275 kcal/day) than in T0 (1734 ± 372 kcal/day; p < 0.001) with a return to similar values at T2 (1.795 ± 396 kcal/day; p < 0.001). In T0, there was no correlation between RMR/kg and body composition. In T1, there was a negative correlation between RMR and BW, BMI, and % FM, and a positive correlation with % FFM. The results in T2 were similar to T1. There was a significant increase in RMR/kg between T0, T1, and T2 (13.6 ± 2.2 kcal/kg, 16.9 ± 2.7 kcal/kg, and 19.9 ± 3.4 kcal/kg) in the total group and according to gender. Eighty percent of the patients who had increased RMR/kg ≥ 2 kcal at T1 achieved > 50% EWL in T2, particularly in women (odds ratio: 27.09, p < 0.037). Conclusions: The increase in RMR/kg after RYGB is a major factor related to a satisfactory % excess weight loss on late follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rate of obesity increasing worldwide, patients with lymphoedema with and without a concomitant diagnosis of severe obesity (SO) were compared in regard to their baseline demographics, health related characteristics, treatment plans, and patient outcomes. This was a retrospective observational cohort study. The IBM MarketScan database was examined (2013 – 2019) for patients with a new diagnosis of lymphoedema. Of 60 284 patients with lymphoedema identified, 6 588 had SO defined by a body mass index > 40 kg/m2. The demographics and other characteristics of SO were compared with patients with lymphoedema without SO. SO and lymphoedema diagnosis increased two fold from 2013 to 2019. The lymphoedema SO+ group was younger (57.8 vs. 60.8 years, p <.001) and with a higher proportion of men (37.7% vs. 24.9%, p <.001) than the lymphoedema SO– group. More comorbidities were observed in the lymphoedema SO+ group than the lymphoedema SO– group: diabetes 46.0% vs. 24.9 % (p <.001), heart failure 18.3% vs. 7.4% (p <.001), hypertension 75.0% vs. 47.6% (p <.001), and renal disease 24.8% vs. 11.9% (p <.001). Use of diuretics in the lymphoedema SO+ group was greater: 57.6% vs. 38.0% (p <.001). Patients with lymphoedema SO+ had higher risk of cellulitis: 34.5% vs. 13.5% (p <.001). Specific lymphoedema treatment was given more often to lymphoedema SO–: 66.3% vs. 64.3% (p =.003). This was significant for manual lymphatic drainage (46.6% vs. 40.0%; p <.001) and physical therapy (55.4% vs. 51.6%; p <.001), but not for compression garments (18.2% vs. 17.7%; p =.38). However, more patients with lymphoedema SO+ received pneumatic compression device treatment: 20.9% vs. 13.7% (p <.001). There was an increase in SO associated lymphoedema. Patients with lymphoedema SO+ have over a two and half fold increase in cellulitis incidence, with a significant increase in medical resource use and cost. Despite this, patients with lymphoedema and SO receive less specific therapy such as compression, which has proven to reduce cellulitis incidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Applying eHealth interventions via social media is common in modern medicine. LINE® is a popular communication app in Taiwan that can deliver messages 24 h a day. In addition to being free of charge, it also allows bariatric nurses (BNs) and patients to enjoy bidirectional communication via telecommunication services instead of direct, face-to-face contact for patients undergoing bariatric-metabolic surgery (BMS). We conducted this retrospective study to determine the frequency and reasons for early post-discharge of LINE® messages/calls and investigate the relationship between this frequency and contents of these messages and postoperative outcomes after BMS. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was conducted in an Asian weight management center. The study period ran from August 2016 to December 2021, and a total of 143 native patients with severe obesity were enrolled. All patients were informed of the necessity of a postoperative dietitian consultation before bariatric surgery. The patterns of LINE® communication with the BN and associated actions to resolve patients' needs within 180 days after index BMS were analyzed. Results: Among the 143 enrolled patients, 100 underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and 43 underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. A total of 1205 messages/calls were analyzed concomitantly; most LINE® communications focused on diet problems (47.97%; n = 578), weight problems (11.54%; n = 139), and medications (9.21%; n = 111). Most problems could be resolved by LINE® communications directly, and only a small portion (5.6%) was directed to local clinics or emergency departments. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the usage of LINE® communications significantly increased (12.2 ± 10.4 vs. 6.4 ± 4.9; p < 0.01); nonetheless, a higher frequency of LINE® communications would not hinder the regular clinic visits (r = 0.359; p = 0.01). Conclusion: Based on our limited experience, the LINE® consultation service operated by the BN could effectively address patients' problems. Moreover, it might reduce the need for emergency department visits or unexpected clinic appointments for patients after BMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe obesity in young children prompts for a differential diagnosis that includes syndromic conditions. Rapid-Onset Obesity with Hypothalamic Dysfunction, Hypoventilation, and Autonomic Dysregulation (ROHHAD) syndrome is a potentially fatal disorder characterized by rapid-onset obesity associated with hypoventilation, neural crest tumors, and endocrine and behavioral abnormalities. The etiology of ROHHAD syndrome remains to be established, but recent research has been focusing on autoimmunity. We report on a 2-year-old girl with rapid-onset obesity during the first year of life who progressed to hypoventilation and encephalitis in less than four months since the start of accelerated weight gain. The patient had a high titer of anti-ZSCAN1 antibodies (348; reference range < 40), and the increased values did not decline after acute phase treatment. Other encephalitis-related antibodies, such as the anti-NDMA antibody, were not detected. The rapid progression from obesity onset to central hypoventilation with encephalitis warns about the severe consequences of early-onset ROHHAD syndrome. These data indicate that serial measurements of anti-ZSCAN1 antibodies might be useful for the diagnosis and estimation of disease severity. Further research is needed to determine whether it can predict the clinical course of ROHHAD syndrome and whether there is any difference in antibody production between patients with and without tumors.

Abstract Background Severely obese patients can have other diseases requiring surgical treatment. In such patients, bariatric surgeries are considered a precursor to operations targeting the original disease for the purpose of reducing severe perioperative complications. Pancreatic ectopic fat deposition increases pancreas volume (PV) and thickness, which can worsen insulin resistance and islet β cell function. To address this problem, we present a novel two-stage surgical strategy performed on a severely obese patient with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET) consisting of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) as a metabolic surgery followed by laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP). Case presentation A 56-year-old man was referred to our hospital for further investigation of a pancreatic tumor. His initial body weight and body mass index (BMI) were 94.0 kg and 37.2 kg/m2, respectively. Contrast computed tomography revealed an enhanced tumor measuring 15 mm on the pancreatic body. The pancreas thickness and PV were 32 mm and 148 mL, respectively. An endoscopic ultrasonographic fine needle aspiration identified the tumor as PNET-G1. We first performed LSG, the patient’s body weight and BMI had decreased dramatically to 64.0 kg and 25.3 kg/m2 at 6 months after LSG. The pancreas thickness and PV had also decreased to 17 mm and 99 mL, respectively, with no tumor growth. Since LSG has been shown to reduce the perioperative risk factors of LSPDP, and to improve insulin resistance and recovery of islet β cell function, we performed LSPDP for PNET-G1 as a second-stage surgery. The postoperative course was unremarkable, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 14 without symptomatic postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). He was followed without recurrence or type 2 diabetes (T2D) onset for 6 months after LSPDP. Conclusions We present a novel two-stage surgical strategy for a severely obese patient with PNET, consisting of LSG as a metabolic surgery for severe obesity, followed by LSPDP after confirmation of good weight loss and metabolic effects. LSG before pancreatectomy may have a potential to reduce pancreas thickness and recovery of islet β cell function in severely obese patients, thereby reducing the risk of clinically relevant POPF and post-pancreatectomy T2D onset.

Background: Obesity remains a public health problem worldwide. The high prevalence of this condition in the population raises further concerns, considering that comorbidities are often associated with obesity. Among the comorbidities closely associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome (MS) is particularly important, which potentially increases the risk of manifestation of other disorders, such as the prothrombotic and systemic pro-inflammatory states. Methods: A randomized, controlled clinical trial was performed involving female patients (n = 32) aged between 18 and 65 years, with a clinical diagnosis of MS, with severe obesity undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The study design followed the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement (CONSORT). Lipid profile, blood glucose and adipokines (adiponectin, leptin, and resistin) and (cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, and TNF-α) in blood plasma samples were evaluated before and six months after RYGB. Results: Patients undergoing RYGB (BSG) showed a significant improvement from preoperative grade III obesity to postoperative grade I obesity. The results showed that while HDL levels increased, the other parameters showed a significant reduction in their postoperative values when compared not only to the values observed before surgery in the BSG group, but also to the values obtained in the control group (CG). As for systemic inflammatory markers adiponectin, leptin, resistin, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23 and TNF- α it was observed that the levels of resistin and IL-17 in the second evaluation increased significantly when compared to the levels observed in the first evaluation in the CG. In the BSG group, while the levels of adiponectin increased, the levels of the other markers showed significant reductions in the postoperative period, in relation to the respective preoperative levels. The analysis of Spearman's correlation coefficient showed a significant positive correlation between IL-17 and IL-23 in the preoperative period, significant positive correlations between TNF-α and IL-6, TNF-α and IL-17, IL-6 and IL-17, and IL-17 and IL-23 were observed postoperatively. Conclusions: According to our results, the reduction of anthropometric measurements induced by RYGB, significantly improves not only the plasma biochemical parameters (lipid profile and glycemia), but also the systemic inflammatory status of severely obese patients with MS. Trials registration NCT02409160 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Meal replacement therapy (MRT) is a structured treatment that is effective for short‐term weight reduction in adolescents with severe obesity. However, like other interventions, MRT response is variable. Objective: The goal of the current study was to characterize the experience of adolescents with severe obesity participating in MRT. Methods: Seventeen adolescents with severe obesity participated in semi‐structured, individual interviews about their experience participating in MRT. The authors used a biopsychosocial model as the theoretical framework and data was analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. A biopsychosocial model views an individual's health as a blend of biological characteristics, behavioural factors, and social conditions. Results: Results showed that adolescents with severe obesity described three biopsychosocial factors that were central to their experience with MRT: (1) scheduling and planning, (2) social support and pressure, and (3) intrapersonal factors. Specifically, adolescents with severe obesity identified that planning ahead, social support, and intrapersonal changes (e.g. self‐confidence) can promote engagement in MRT. On the other hand, unplanned schedule changes, social pressures, and different intrapersonal factors (e.g., taste preference) can make engagement challenging. Conclusions: Adolescents provided information on factors that supported or hindered their engagement in MRT, and themes were consistent with prior literature on health behaviour change. Overall, adolescents would recommend MRT to other teenagers who carry extra weight. Future research can use the rich information provided by adolescents with severe obesity to enhance and individualize treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The prevalence of obesity among kidney transplant recipients is rising. We sought to determine the association between recipient body mass index (BMI) and post-transplant complications. Methods Single-center, retrospective cohort study of all adult kidney transplant recipients from 2004 to 2020. Recipients were stratified into four BMI categories: normal-weight (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2, n  = 1020), overweight (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2, n  = 1002), moderately obese (BMI 30–34.9 kg/m2, n  = 510) and severely-to-morbidly obese (BMI ≥35 kg/m2, n  = 274). Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between BMI category and surgical site infections (SSIs). Results Recipients with BMI ≥35 kg/m2 had significantly higher rates of SSIs (P  < .0001) compared with recipients in all other categories. On multivariable analysis, recipients with BMI ≥35 kg/m2 had increased odds of SSIs compared with normal-weight recipients [odds ratio (OR) 3.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.55–7.22, P  = .022). On multivariable and Kaplan–Meier analyses, no BMI groups demonstrated increased odds for death-censored graft failure. Conclusion Severe obesity in kidney transplant recipients is associated with increased SSIs, but not kidney allograft failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bariatric surgery has emerged as a safe/effective treatment for adolescents with severe obesity; therefore, understanding its impact over the life course is imperative. This study examined self-worth and developmental outcomes during the transition to adulthood (19-24 years old) for youth who underwent surgery as adolescents (13-18 years old) and a nonsurgical group with severe obesity. Method: As part of a prospective and multisite observational study series, adolescents (139 surgical, 83 nonsurgical) were followed for 6 years postsurgery/baseline when they completed height/weight measurements and measures of global selfworth, maturity, and occupational, educational, and social functioning as young adults. Growth curve analysis examined global self-worth change, while regressions were used to compare groups and examine adolescentreported familial predictors and weight-related correlates for outcomes. Results: Relative to the nonsurgical group, the surgical group experienced a significant quadratic improvement in self-worth and higher year 6 romantic self-perceptions. For the surgical group only, greater family dysfunction predicted lower young adult self-worth and perceptions of maturity, while higher family connectedness predicted higher self-worth and perceptions of maturity. Greater percent weight loss was associated with higher perceptions of maturity for the surgical group. Conclusions: Group difference findings suggest that the impact of surgery was on self-worth and romantic self-perceptions, outcomes linked in the developmental literature to body image. For both groups, functioning appeared similar to population-based findings, suggesting they are meeting "expected" age-salient developmental outcomes. The impact of earlier positive family functioning on selfworth and self-perceptions of maturity may place adolescents on pathways to success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study objective to compare the acute effects between one resistance training bout with high versus moderate intensities on inflammatory markers in women with severe obesity. Experimental crossover study, performed with adult women with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40.0 kg/m²; age ≥ 18 years old). Each participant performed a high and moderate intensity resistance training (HIRT and MIRT, respectively) with an interval of 7 days between bouts. Four exercises were performed in the both protocols, with total training volume equalized. MIRT consisted of 3 sets of 8 repetitions each, with an intensity of 75% of 1RM, while HIRT consisted of 2 sets of 6 repetitions, followed by a 20-second rest, with a new performance of 2 to 3 repetitions, with one more rest of 20s and finishing with 2 to 3 more repetitions, at an intensity of 85% of 1RM. Blood samples were collected before, 15 minutes after and 24 hours after both training protocols. The inflammatory markers analyzed were IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and IFN-γ. Nine participants have completed the intervention (n=9; 35.2 ± 10.93 years old; BMI = 48.3 ± 5.06 kg/m²). The Mann-Whitney U test showed that there was no significant difference between the HIRT and MIRT in the concentration of markers. Friedman's test did not report significant differences between intragroup measures for the HIRT as well as MIRT. This research suggests that a single session of high or moderate intensity resistance training does not change the inflammatory status of women with severe obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Micronutrient deficiencies represent a common condition after bariatric surgery (BS). The prevalence of these nutritional disorders before BS is still debated. The aim of our study was to retrospectively evaluate the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in candidates for BS. Methods: A prospectively maintained database of our institution was searched to find all patients who underwent surgery between January and December 2021. The following data were collected: age, gender, body mass index (BMI), obesity-associated diseases, and preoperative serum levels of vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D. Results: A total of 174 patients were included in our study. Mean age and BMI were 39.2 ± 11.4 years and 44.3 ± 7.1 kg/m2, respectively. One hundred and thirty-nine patients (79.9%) had at least one preoperative micronutrient disorder, with vitamin D deficiency being the most common (116, 66.7%), followed by a deficit of folate (76, 43.7%) and vitamin B12 (10, 5.7%). Forty-seven (27%) individuals had insufficient levels of vitamin D. Comparison of deficiencies between sexes showed that vitamin B12 < 20 ng/ml was significantly more frequent in women (p = 0.03). DLP showed a mild significant effect on folate levels (p = 0.01), while the association of HNT and T2DM had a mild significant effect on vitamin B12 (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Preoperative micronutrient deficiencies were frequently found in candidates for BS. Approximately 90% of patients had deficient or insufficient serum levels of vitamin D preoperatively. Almost half of the patients had a preoperative deficit of folate, and vitamin B12 deficiency was significantly more frequent in the female population. It is mandatory to screen all patients undergoing BS for vitamin deficiencies before surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To observe the effect of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy（LSG）in the treatment of severe obesity with menstrual disorders. Methods A total of 107 severely obese patients with menstrual disorders［including 56 cases with polycystic ovary syndrome（PCOS）］were treated with LSG. The weight，BMI，percentage of excess body weight loss，menstrual cycle，and the improvement rate of menstrual disorders after surgery were compared with those before operation. Results The body weight，BMI decreased，and menstrual cycle was shortened at 1，3，6，and 12 months after operation in comparison with those before operation（all P<0. 05）；the body weight，BMI decreased，and the percentage of excess body weight loss increased at 3，6，and 12 months after operation，and the menstrual cycle was shortened at 6 and 12 months after operation in comparison with those at 1 month after operation（all P<0. 05）；the body weight and BMI decreased and the percentage of excess body weight loss increased at 6 and 12 months after operation in comparison with those at 3 month after operation（all P<0. 05）；the body mass and BMI decreased，and the percentage of excess body weight loss increased at 12 months after operation in comparison with those at 6 month after operation（all P< 0. 05）. Among the 107 severely obese patients with menstrual disorders，86 cases returned to normal menstrual cycle after operation，and the improvement rate of menstrual disorder was 80. 4%；among them，56 patients with PCOS were effectively treated by LSG，and their menstrual cycle returned to normal level，and the improvement rate was 100%；among 51 patients without PCOS，the improvement rate of menstrual disorders was 64. 3%. With the reduction of BMI and body weight，the menstrual cycle was significantly shortened，but the relationship was not linear，and the improvement of menstrual cycle preceded the decline of body weight；when the body weight decreased by about 10%，the BMI dropped to 37 kg/m2，and the excess body weight decreased by about 21%，the menstrual cycle was significantly shortened；at about 2 months after the operation，the menstrual cycle returned to normal. Conclusion LSG can significantly improve the symptoms of menstrual disorders in severely obese patients while effectively reducing weight，especially for patients with PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To estimate the impact of body mass index (BMI) categories on duration of the nonstress test (NST), and the need for additional tests of fetal wellbeing or interventions. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of women with singleton pregnancies who had an NST for the indications of severe obesity (BMI ≥40 kg/m2), diabetes (pre-gestational or gestational), hypertensive disorders (chronic, gestational, and preeclampsia), and others between 1 January 2015 until 31 December 2016. NST durations (<30 and ≥30 min) were compared between groups first based on BMI (kg/m2) categories (<30, 30–39, 40–49, and ≥50) and then based on BMI and comorbidities: (1) severe obesity alone, (2) severe obesity and comorbidities, and (3) comorbidities alone. We compared the results of the NSTs, any subsequent fetal testing or interventions, and pregnancy outcomes among groups. Demographic information was compared using t-tests for continuous data and χ2 analyses or Fisher’s exact test, if the cells sizes were small, for categorical data. NST durations based on BMI groups, as well as BMI and comorbidities groups, were compared using linear mixed models and ANOVA. Results Three hundred and fifty-one women underwent 1665 NSTs during the study period. After excluding women <18 and >50 years, gestational age <30 weeks, fetal anomalies, and NSTs lasting longer than 60 min, the study population included 313 women and 1471 NSTs. The mean NST duration in minutes of the BMI ≥50 (32.2 ± 9.6) category was significantly longer than the NST duration of the other BMI categories (BMI <30: 29.4 ± 8.3; BMI 30–39: 29.7 ± 8.9; BMI 40–49: 29.9 ± 8.3) (p=.05). Additionally, there was an increased percentage of NSTs lasting ≥30 min as the BMI category increased (p=.005). Women in the severe obesity and comorbidities group (n = 79) were less likely to have a reactive NST than women with severe obesity alone (n = 56) or comorbidities alone (n = 178) (92% vs. 97% vs. 98%, p<.0001). They were also more likely to need a biophysical profile (BPP) (8% vs. 3% vs. 2%, p<.0001). Of the 25 women that were sent to the labor and delivery unit for evaluation, 20 (80%) were admitted and delivered. The reasons for delivery were hypertension (n = 9, 45%), an abnormal NST (n = 5, 25%), oligohydramnios (n = 4, 20%), and labor (n = 2, 10%). Conclusions We found an increase in NST duration as the BMI increased. Women with severe obesity and a comorbidity were more likely to have a nonreactive NST and require a subsequent BPP. Of the 20 patients delivered due to NST surveillance, the most common indication for delivery was hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance are three pathological conditions highly correlated, but this relationship is not fully elucidated. Hence, we aimed to assess the association of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis with different measures of insulin sensitivity in patients with severe obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Methods: A cross-sectional study (Oseberg trial) including patients with T2DM referred for bariatric surgery at Vestfold Hospital Trust, Norway. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) test was used for estimation of liver fat fraction (LFF) and degree of fibrosis, respectively. Oral and intravenous glucose tolerance tests were applied for estimation of insulin sensitivity (HOMA2S, Matsuda ISI and MinMod SI).Results: A total of 100 patients (mean [SD] age 47.5 [9.7] years, 65% women, BMI 42.0 [5.3] kg/m2 and 98% with metabolic syndrome) were included in the analyses. The mean (SD) LFF in the total population was 19.1 (11.5), and the mean (SD) ELF score was 8.46 (0.84), a value representing moderate fibrosis. LFF was inversely associated with HOMA2S and Matsuda ISI, and both measures were significantly higher in the no or low-grade steatosis group compared with the medium-to-high grade steatosis group (mean difference [95% CI] 5.9 [2.2-9.6]%, Cohen's d = 0.75), and (0.7 [0.3-1.1], Cohen's d = 0.80, respectively). There was no association between LFF, as a categorical or continuous variable, and MinMod SI. The proportions of patients with none to mild fibrosis, moderate fibrosis and severe fibrosis were 14, 78 and 6%, respectively, and there were no significant associations between level of fibrosis and measures of insulin sensitivity.Conclusions: Patients with morbid obesity and T2DM demonstrated high levels of liver fat fraction, and we showed that hepatic steatosis, but not the degree of liver fibrosis, was associated with different measures of insulin sensitivity in patients with severe obesity and T2DM. Further, our results might indicate that the LFF is primarily associated with hepatic, and not peripheral insulin sensitivity. To improve the diagnosis of NAFLD and the prediction of its progression, more studies are needed to reveal the pathological mechanistic pathways involved in NAFLD and insulin sensitivity.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01778738. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A retrospective cohort study investigated the association between having surgery and risk of mortality for up to 5 years and if this association was modified by incident ESRD during the follow-up period. Summary of Background Data: Mortality risk in individuals with pre-dialysis CKD is high and few effective treatment options are available. Whether bariatric surgery can improve survival in people with CKD is unclear. Methods: Patients with class II and III obesity and pre-dialysis CKD stages 3–5 who underwent bariatric surgery between January 1, 2006 and September 30, 2015 (n = 802) were matched to patients who did not have surgery (n = 4933). Mortality was obtained from state death records and ESRD was identified through state-based or healthcare system-based registries. Cox regression models were used to investigate the association between bariatric surgery and risk of mortality and if this was moderated by incident ESRD during the follow-up period. Results: Patients were primarily women (79%), non-Hispanic White (72%), under 65 years old (64%), who had a body mass index > 40kg/m2 (59%), diabetes (67%), and hypertension (89%). After adjusting for incident ESRD, bariatric surgery was associated with a 79% lower 5-year risk of mortality compared to matched controls (hazard ratio = 0.21; 95% confidence interval: 0.14–0.32; P < 0.001). Incident ESRD did not moderate the observed association between surgery and mortality (hazard ratio = 1.59; 95% confidence interval: 0.31–8.23; P =0.58). Conclusions: Bariatric surgery is associated with a reduction in mortality in pre-dialysis patients regardless of developing ESRD. These findings are significant because patients with CKD are at relatively high risk for death with few efficacious interventions available to improve survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review evaluated the impact of bariatric surgery, performed to improve eligibility for kidney transplantation, on post-transplantation outcomes. A systematic literature search was performed for articles published by 30 January 2022. A total of 31 studies were included. Among patients without pre-transplantation bariatric surgery, 18 studies reported 13.7% graft loss and 9.1% mortality within 5 years' post-transplantation. Among recipients with pre-transplantation bariatric surgery, 15 studies reported 8.7% graft loss and 2.8% mortality within 1 month to over 5 years' post-transplantation. Two case–control studies comparing post-transplantation outcomes between recipients with and without prior bariatric surgery demonstrated no significant differences between groups for graft loss, patient mortality, delayed graft function, wound complications and lymphocele. Non-randomized selection of patients and different lengths of follow-up limit the results of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Giant ovarian tumors are rarely seen with severe obesity. There are few reports of perioperative management of giant ovarian tumors and severe obesity. Here, we report the perioperative management of physiological changes in massive intraabdominal tumors in a patient with severe obesity. Case presentation A 46-year-old Japanese woman (height 166 cm, weight 193.2 kg; body mass index 70.1 kg/m2) was scheduled to undergo laparotomy for a giant ovarian tumor. The patient was placed in the ramp position. Preoxygenation was performed using a high-flow nasal cannula, and awake tracheal intubation was performed using a video laryngoscope. Mechanical ventilation using a limited tidal volume with moderate positive end-expiratory pressure was applied during the surgical procedure. The aspiration speed for 15 L of tumor aspirate was set to under 1 L/minute, and the possibility of reexpansion pulmonary edema was foreseen by conventional monitoring. Conclusions We successfully completed anesthetic management in a patient with concomitant severe obesity and giant ovarian tumors.

The leptin–melanocortin pathway is pivotal in appetite and energy homeostasis. Pathogenic variants in genes involved in this pathway lead to severe early-onset monogenic obesity (MO). The MC4R gene plays a central role in leptin–melanocortin signaling, and heterozygous variants in this gene are the most common cause of MO. A targeted gene panel consisting of 52 obesity-related genes was used to screen for variants associated with obesity. Variants were analyzed and filtered to identify potential disease-causing activity and validated using Sanger sequencing. We identified two novel heterozygous variants, c.253A>G p.Ser85Gly and c.802T>C p.Tyr268His, in the MC4R gene in two unrelated patients with morbid obesity and evaluated the functional impact of these variants. The impact of the variants on the MC4R gene was assessed using in silico prediction tools and molecular dynamics simulation. To further study the pathogenicity of the identified variants, GT1-7 cells were transfected with plasmid DNA encoding either wild-type or mutant MC4R variants. The effects of allelic variations in the MC4R gene on cAMP synthesis, MC4R protein level, and activation of PKA, ERB, and CREB signaling pathways in both stimulated and unstimulated ɑ-MSH paradigms were determined for their functional implications. In silico analysis suggested that the variants destabilized the MC4R structure and affected the overall dynamics of the MC4R protein, possibly leading to intracellular receptor retention. In vitro analysis of the functional impact of these variants showed a significant reduction in cell surface receptor expression and impaired extracellular ligand binding activity, leading to reduced cAMP production. Our analysis shows that the variants do not affect total protein expression; however, they are predicted to affect the post-translational localization of the MC4R protein to the cell surface and impair downstream signaling cascades such as PKA, ERK, and CREB signaling pathways. This finding might help our patients to benefit from the novel therapeutic advances for monogenic forms of obesity.

Background: Protein-sparing modified fast (PSMF) diet is a very-low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet administered to patients with obesity, which preserves lean mass and suppresses appetite as well as continuous enteral feeding. Thus, we aim to evaluate the effect of the PSMF diet administered continuously by nasogastric tube (NGT) or orally. Methods: Patients with a body mass index (BMI) > 34.9 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to receive a whey protein PSMF formula through NGT (ProMoFasT) or orally. Data were collected at baseline and after 150 days. The endpoints were assessed in the intention-to-treat population. Results: We enrolled 20 patients in the ProMoFasT group and 24 in the oral group. No differences in body weight, BMI or waist circumference between the two groups were found after 150 days. At follow-up, FFM (%) and MM (%) results were higher in the ProMoFasT group than the oral group (63.1% vs. 52.9%, p = 0.012 and 45.0% vs. 36.1%, p = 0.009, respectively) and FM (kg) and FM (%) were significantly lower in the ProMoFasT group (36.9 kg vs. 44.0 kg, p = 0.033 and 37.4% vs. 44.9%, p = 0.012, respectively). Insulin levels were lower in the ProMoFasT group than the oral group at follow-up (11.8 mU/L vs. 28.0 mU/L, p = 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: The ProMoFasT is more effective in improving body composition and glucometabolic markers than the same diet administered orally.

Background: Weight loss before undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) has been suggested to reduce perioperative complications, although with controversial results. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of treatment with GLP1-R agonists (liraglutide 3.0 mg and semaglutide 1.0 mg) on preoperative weight loss and patients’ decisions regarding MBS while on a surgical waiting list. Materials and methods: One hundred and two patients on a waiting list for MBS started treatment with GLP1-RA for at least 6 months. Changes in weight at 26 and 52 weeks, the number of patients achieving >5% weight loss, and patients’ decisions regarding MBS were evaluated. Results: After 52 weeks, patients lost 16.9 ± 7.2% of weight with semaglutide 1.0 mg and 16.1 ± 5.8% of weight with liraglutide 3.0 mg. All patients lost ≥5% of initial weight, 84.7% lost ≥10%, 54.6% lost ≥15%, and 27.5% reached ≥20%. A total of 68.6% of participants were satisfied with the achieved weight loss and withdrew from the waiting list for MBS. A threshold of >15.1% weight loss had the greatest sensitivity and specificity for the final decision regarding undergoing MBS. Conclusions: Losing >15% of initial weight after 52 weeks of treatment with liraglutide 3.0 mg or semaglutide 1.0 mg during the waiting list for MBS impacts patients’ decisions regarding the final acceptance or rejection of the procedure.

Abstract Background Aerobic exercise is an important part of obesity treatment and may improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The objective of this study was to compare the effect of two different exercise programs on health-related quality of life in patients with severe obesity. Methods This was a single-center, open-label, randomized, parallel-group study comparing the effects of a 24-week moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) program and a combined high-intensity interval training program with MICT (HIIT/MICT). The primary objective (specified secondary outcome) was to assess HRQOL by using the general health dimension of the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). The secondary objectives were to assess other dimensional SF-36 scores, the impact of weight on the physical and psychosocial aspects of quality of life (IWQOL-Lite), and the burden of obesity-specific weight symptoms (WRSM). Results 73 patients were enrolled and reported patient reported outcome measures, with 71 patients (55% females) allocated to either MICT (n = 34) or HIIT/MICT (n = 37). In the intention-to-treat analysis, general health scores increased between baseline and 24-week follow-up in both the HIIT/MICT group and the MICT group, with a mean change of 13 (95% CI 6–21) points and 11 (95% CI 5–17) points, respectively, with no difference between the groups. The effect sizes of these changes were moderate. The vitality and social functioning scores of SF-36, and the physical function and self-esteem scores of IWQOL-Lite increased moderately in both groups, with no difference between groups. The tiredness, back pain, and physical stamina scores based on WRSM showed moderate to strong changes in both the groups. Conclusions Patients who had completed a combined HIIT/MICT program did not experience larger improvements in general health compared with those completing a clean 24-week MICT program. Exercise may confer general health benefits independent of intensity. Trials registration Regional Committees for Medical and Health Research Ethics south east, Norway, October 23, 2013 (identifier: 2013/1849) and ClinicalTrials.gov December 8, 2014 (identifier: NCT02311738).

Introduction: Severe obesity among children and adolescents has emerged as a public health concern in multiple places around the world. Methods: We searched the Medline database for articles on severe obesity rates in children published between January 1960 and January 2020. For studies with available prevalence rates for an early and a more recent time period, the relative increase in prevalence was imputed. Results: In total, 874 publications were identified, of which 38 contained relevant epidemiological data. Rates of severe obesity varied significantly according to age, gender, geographic area, and the definition of severe obesity. The highest rates of class II and III obesity in the USA according to the Centers of Disease Control cut-off were 9.5% and 4.5%, respectively. Seventeen studies reported prevalence rates in at least two time periods. Data for 9,190,718 individuals showed a 1.71 (95% CI, 1.53–1.90) greater odds for severe obesity in 2006–2017 (N = 5,029,584) versus 1967–2007 (N = 4,161,134). In an analysis limited to studies from 1980s with a minimum follow-up of 20 years, a 9.16 (95% CI, 7.76–10.80) greater odds for severe obesity in recent versus earlier time was found. An analysis limited to studies from 2000, with a follow-up of 5–15 years, a 1.09 (95% CI, 0.99–1.20) greater odds was noted when comparing (2011–2017; N = 4,991,831) versus (2000–2011; N = 4,134,340). Conclusion: Severe pediatric obesity is escalating with a marked increase from the 1980s and a slower rate from 2000.

Introduction: Obesity has an increasing morbidity, and worldwide its frequency is increasing extremely rapidly. It has a negative impact on all organs and systems in the human body and is related to another, often unrecognized disease, such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Aim: to determine the frequency and severity of OSA in patients with severe obesity and to identify the risk factors associated with its occurrence. Material and methods: The study included 110 patients with severe obesity (body mass index, BMI ≥ 40kg/m2), investigated for OSA in the Sleep Apnea Laboratory, UMHAT „Alexandrovska" for the 2019-2022 period. Different clinical methods were used. Polysomnography was performed in all patients. Results: Of the total number of examined patients, 72 (65.45%) were diagnosed with OSA (27 females and 45 males). Of them 22 patients were with mild OSA, 20 - with moderate and 30 - with severe OSA. There is a positive correlation between OSA and age (r = 0.207, p = 0.030), body weight (r = 0.420; p < 0.001), BMI (r = 0.382; p < 0.001) and male gender (r = 0.474; p < 0.001). Factors increasing the probability of OSA in severe obesity are male gender (OR 8.89; 95% CI 3.29-24.02; p = 0.001), increase in body weight by 10% (OR 2.01; 95% CI 1.00-3.02; p = 0.002) and the increase in BMI by 10 kg/m2 (OR 2.04; 95% CI 1.01-3.07; p = 0.002). Conclusion: Obesity is a powerful risk factor for the development and progression of OSA. In patients with severe obesity, the incidence of OSA is much higher than in the general population. Increasing body weight is associated with increased severity of OSA. Advancing age as well as male gender are associated with a higher risk of developing OSA. The diagnosis of OSA and its treatment can lead to a significant improvement in the condition and quality of life in the group of patients with severe obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A better understanding of the influence of genetic factors on the response to lifestyle interventions in people with obesity may allow the development of more personalised, effective and efficient therapeutic strategies. We sought to determine the influence of six obesity-related genetic risk scores on the magnitude of weight lost by patients with severe obesity who completed a dietary intervention. Methods: In this single-centre prospective cohort study, participants with severe and complicated obesity who completed a 24-week, milk-based meal replacement programme were genotyped to detect the frequency of common risk alleles for obesity and type 2 diabetes-related traits. Genetic risk scores (GRS) for six of these traits were derived. Participants with a potentially deleterious monogenic gene variant were excluded from the analysis. Results: In 93 patients completing the programme who were not carrying a known obesity-related gene mutation, 35.5% had diabetes, 53.8% were female, mean age was 51.4 ± 11 years, mean body mass index was 51.5 ± 8.7 and mean total weight loss percent at 24 weeks was 16 ± 6.3%. The waist–hip ratio (WHR) GRS was inversely associated with percentage total weight loss at 24 weeks (adjusted β for one standard deviation increase in WHR GRS −11.6 [−23.0, −0.3], p = 0.045), and patients in the lowest tertile of WHR GRS lost more weight. Conclusions: Patients with severe and complicated obesity with a genetic predisposition to central fat accumulation had less weight loss in a 24-week milk-based meal replacement programme, but there was no evidence for influence from the five other obesity-related genetic risk scores on the response to dietary restriction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have high circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels which is correlated with antral follicle count and polycystic ovarian morphology and negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI). Moreover, diet-induced weight loss in women with PCOS and overweight or obesity, reduce or normalize AMH-levels. There is, however, no previous study investigating the circulating AMH levels in women with severe obesity and how a structured diet-induced weight loss program affects circulating AMH levels in these women. Therefore, this study aims to investigate circulating AMH levels in a population of women with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) with and without PCOS, as diagnosed by the NIH-criteria, and to investigate the effect of a one-year weight loss program with a very low-energy diet (VLED) on circulating levels of AMH. Methods: In a prospective cohort-study, were 246 women with severe obesity were screened for PCOS diagnosis with the NIH-criteria, circulating AMH and anthropometry were measured at baseline and after a 12-month weight loss intervention with very low-energy diet (VLED). Results: Mean BMI was 39.9 ± 4.7 (PCOS), 39.6 ± 4.3 (non-PCOS) P = 0.960. Circulating AMH was higher in women with PCOS (5.47 ± 4.89 µg/L) compared with non-PCOS (2.66 ± 3.71 µg/L) P < 0.001 and was positively correlated with circulating total testosterone in both groups. Next, we performed ROC-analyses, and show that circulating AMH could not discriminate women with PCOS and severe obesity from non-PCOS women with severe obesity. Finally, a one-year weight reduction program does not affect circulating AMH levels despite significant weight loss neither in women with PCOS, nor without PCOS and severe obesity. Conclusion: Women with severe obesity and PCOS have elevated levels of circulating AMH compared to women without the syndrome. AMH-levels could not discriminate women with PCOS from non-PCOS because of low sensitivity and specificity. Significant weight loss was not associated with changes in circulating AMH levels, neither in women with, nor without PCOS and severe obesity. These results imply that in women with severe obesity, a greater weight loss may be needed to improve reproductive features, independent of PCOS diagnosis. Trial registration number: Clinical trial.gov: NCT01319162. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Hepatic fibrosis is associated with various factors, including metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), insulin resistance, and alcohol intake in patients with morbid obesity. We investigated factors directly associated with hepatic fibrosis in patients with morbid obesity using a graphical model. Methods: We enrolled 134 consecutive patients with morbid obesity who underwent liver biopsy during sleeve gastrectomy (median age 43.5 years; MAFLD 78.4%; homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA‐IR] 5.97; >20 g/day alcohol intake 14.2%). Patients were classified into none/mild (F0/1; n = 77) or significant/advanced fibrosis (F2/3; n = 57) groups, based on histology. Factors associated with F2/3 were analyzed using logistic regression analysis and a graphical model. Results: F2/3 was observed in 42.5% of the enrolled patients. The prevalence of MAFLD and HOMA‐IR values were significantly higher in the F2/3 group than in the F0/1 group; however, no significant difference in alcohol intake was observed between the two groups. On logistic regression analysis, MAFLD, but not HOMA‐IR or alcohol intake, was the only independent factor associated with F2/3 (odds ratio 7.555; 95% confidence interval 2.235–25.544; p = 0.0011). The graphical model revealed that F2/3 directly interacted with MAFLD, diabetes mellitus, HOMA‐IR, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Among these factors, MAFLD showed the strongest interaction with F2/3. Conclusions: We determined that MAFLD was more directly associated with significant/advanced fibrosis than insulin resistance or hyperlipidemia, and alcohol intake was not directly associated with hepatic fibrosis. Metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease could be the most important factor for hepatic fibrosis in patients with morbid obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: A sex- and age-matched case-control study and a cross-sectional study. Objective: In our previous study, patients with early-onset (<50 years of age) ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) had distinct features such as morbid obesity, a high prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, and diffuse ossified lesions mainly affecting the thoracic spine. Our goals were to determine whether early-onset OPLL patients have unbalanced dietary habits and to identify nutritional factors associated with OPLL exacerbation. Methods: In Study 1, the simple brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire (BDHQ) was used to compare nutrient intake levels of early-onset OPLL patients (n = 13) with those of sex- and age-matched non-OPLL controls (n = 39) or with those of common OPLL (onset age ≥ 50 years, n = 62). In Study 2, serological validation was conducted for thoracic OPLL patients (n = 77) and non-OPLL controls (n = 101) in a nationwide multicenter study in Japan. Results: The BDHQ showed that the early-onset OPLL patients had significantly lower intakes of vitamins A and B6 than non-OPLL controls. These results were validated by lower serum vitamins A and B6 levels in the early-onset thoracic OPLL patients. The severity of OPLL negatively correlated with serum vitamin A levels in male early-onset OPLL patients. The multiple regression analysis revealed that the severity of thoracic OPLL had an association with onset age and serum vitamin A level. Conclusions: Vitamin A deficiency resulting from unbalanced dietary habits is associated with exacerbation of male early-onset OPLL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study examined problematic eating and eating‐related psychopathology among young adults who underwent adolescent bariatric surgery including concurrent and prospective associations with psychosocial factors and weight change. Methods: VIEW point is a 6‐year follow‐up study within a prospective observational study series observing adolescents with severe obesity who had bariatric surgery (n = 139) or who presented to nonsurgical lifestyle modification programs (n = 83). Participants completed height/weight measurements, questionnaires, and diagnostic interviews. Regression analyses compared problematic eating across groups and examined Year 6 correlates (i.e., psychosocial factors and weight change) and baseline predictors (i.e., psychosocial factors) of eating‐related psychopathology. Results: Compared to the nonsurgical group, the surgical group reported lower eating‐related psychopathology, objective binge eating, and grazing at Year 6. While chewing/spitting out and vomiting for weight/shape‐related reasons were very infrequent for the surgical group, self‐induced vomiting for other reasons (e.g., avoid plugging) was more common. For the surgical group, lower self‐worth, greater internalizing symptoms, and higher weight‐related teasing in adolescence predicted increased eating‐related psychopathology in young adulthood. Year 6 eating‐related psychopathology was concurrently associated with lower percent weight loss for the surgical group and greater percent weight gain for the nonsurgical group. Conclusion: Undergoing adolescent bariatric surgery appears to afford benefit for problematic eating and eating‐related psychopathology. Current findings suggest that the clinical intervention related to problematic eating and associated psychosocial concerns may be needed for young adults with obesity, regardless of surgical status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Over the last two decades, a progressive increase in failure rate of bariatric surgery (BS) has occurred in conjunction with an exponential increase in BS worldwide. Bariatric surgeons are confronted with challenging situations in patients with a complex bariatric history. In this study, we aim to evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of revisional BS in patients with at least two or more previous bariatric procedures. Methods: Data were retrospectively retrieved from a prospectively held database of bariatric procedures performed at our tertiary referral bariatric center and included procedures done from February 2013 up to April 2019 by a single center. Results: Thirty patients underwent a third bariatric procedure. The median age was 40 (18–57) and 54 (27–69) years at the time of the first and the last procedures, respectively. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding was the first procedure in 26 patients. The complication rate was 33%; no patient required additional surgery because of postoperative complications. A total weight loss of 29.6% and an excess loss of 53.4% were obtained at a mean follow-up of 61 months after the last redo bariatric procedure. Conclusion: This study indicates that redo BS either conversional or revisional is feasible and effective in patients with a complex bariatric history including two or more previous procedures. Careful patients' selection is mandatory and extensive information should be given on the increased risk of postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Approximately 15 million people in the UK live with obesity, around 5 million of whom have severe obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥35kg/m2). Having severe obesity markedly compromises health, well-being and quality of life, and substantially reduces life expectancy. These adverse outcomes are prevented or ameliorated by weight loss, for which sustained behavioural change is the cornerstone of treatment. Although NHS specialist 'Tier 3' Weight Management Services (T3WMS) support people with severe obesity, using individual and group-based treatment, the current evidence on optimal intervention design and outcomes is limited. Due to heterogeneity of severe obesity, there is a need to tailor treatment to address individual needs. Despite this heterogeneity, there are good reasons to suspect that a structured group-based behavioural intervention may be more effective and cost-effective for the treatment of severe obesity compared to usual care. The aims of this study are to test the feasibility of establishing and delivering a multi-centre randomised controlled clinical trial to compare a group-based behavioural intervention versus usual care in people with severe obesity. Methods: This feasibility randomised controlled study is a partially clustered multi-centre trial of PROGROUP (a novel group-based behavioural intervention) versus usual care. Adults ≥18 years of age who have been newly referred to and accepted by NHS T3WMS will be eligible if they have a BMI ≥40, or ≥35 kg/m2 with comorbidity, are suitable for group-based care and are willing to be randomised. Exclusion criteria are participation in another weight management study, planned bariatric surgery during the trial, and unwillingness or inability to attend group sessions. Outcome assessors will be blinded to treatment allocation and success of blinding will be evaluated. Clinical measures will be collected at baseline, 6 and 12 months post-randomisation. Secondary outcome measures will be self-reported and collected remotely. Process and economic evaluations will be conducted. Discussion: This randomised feasibility study has been designed to test all the required research procedures and additionally explore three key issues; the feasibility of implementing a complex trial at participating NHS T3WMS, training the multidisciplinary healthcare teams in a standard intervention, and the acceptability of a group intervention for these particularly complex patients. Trial registration: ISRCTN number 22088800. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Obesity is a disease complicating the course of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 vaccine effectiveness in adults with obesity may be compromised. Our aim is to investigate the spike-protein receptor-binding domain antibody titers against BNT162b2 mRNA and inactivated SARS-CoV-2 (CoronaVac) vaccines in people with severe obesity. It is anticipated that the results to be obtained may provide invaluable information about future SARS-CoV-2 vaccination strategies in this vulnerable population. Methods: A total of 124 consecutive patients with severe obesity (age > 18 years, BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) presenting between August and November 2021 were enrolled. The normal weight control group (age > 18, BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2) was recruited from 166 subjects who visited the vaccination unit. SARS-CoV-2 spike-protein antibody titers were measured in patients with severe obesity and in normal weight controls who received two doses of BNT162b2, or CoronaVac vaccines. SARS-CoV-2 IgG Nucleocapsid Protein antibody (NCP Ab) testing was performed to discover prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Blood samples were taken from individuals at 4th week and after 2nd dose of vaccination. SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody titers were determined by quantitative serological methods. Results: A total of 290 individuals (220 female, 70 male) who have received two doses of BNT162b2 or CoronaVac vaccines were enrolled in the study. Seventy had prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. In 220 subjects (non-prior infection) vaccinated with BNT162b2 or CoronaVac, the antibody titers against SARS-CoV-2 spike antigen of patients with severe obesity were significantly lower than normal weight controls (p = 0.001, p = 0.001 respectively). In seventy subjects with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, spike antigen antibody titers in patients with severe obesity, vaccinated with BNT162b2 or CoronaVac, were not significantly different from normal weight controls (p = 0.1, p = 0.1 respectively). In patients with severe obesity, with and without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, spike antigen antibody levels of those vaccinated with BNT162b2 were found to be significantly higher than those vaccinated with CoronaVac (p = 0.043, p < 0.001 respectively). Conclusion: Patients with severe obesity generated significantly reduced antibody titers against SARS-CoV-2 spike antigen after CoronaVac and BNT162b2 vaccines compared to people with normal weight. Antibody levels in patients with severe obesity vaccinated with BNT162b2 were found to be significantly higher than those vaccinated with CoronaVac. People living with severe obesity should be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination and BNT162b2 vaccine may be recommended for this vulnerable population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A minimally invasive approach using laparoscopy or robotics has become the standard procedure in surgery for colorectal cancer. However, obesity is considered to be associated with a poor prognosis in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Perioperative management, as well as the surgical procedure, is particularly important in severely obese patients. A case of colon cancer with severe obesity that underwent laparoscopic colectomy and was managed safely by multidisciplinary perioperative management in collaboration with a bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) team is presented. The patient was severely obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 50.4 kg/m 2 . After one month of preoperative weight loss intervention by the BMS team, the patient's weight was successfully decreased by approximately 15 kg (BMI: 46 kg/m 2 ), and the patient underwent laparoscopic colectomy for transverse colon cancer in collaboration with the BMS team. In the laparoscopic surgery, a small incision for specimen removal was made above the umbilicus to insert the first trocar safely, and five additional trocars, whose placement was determined based on the target vessels of the dissected lymph nodes in reference to preoperative computed tomography (CT), were also inserted above the umbilicus. Gastrointestinal reconstruction was performed intracorporeally by an overlap technique using an endoscopic linear stapler to perform the procedure safely with minimal invasiveness. The patient was discharged on postoperative day eight without any postoperative complications, following early postoperative rehabilitation with intervention by the BMS team. The proportion of colorectal cancer patients with obesity is expected to increase in the future, and the establishment of multidisciplinary perioperative management and surgical techniques will be useful to improve the surgical outcomes and prognosis of colorectal cancer patients with severe obesity., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: Yuki Matsumi declare(s) a grant from JSPS KAKENHI, grant number JP24K19391. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Matsumi et al.)

We evaluated preoperative weight loss and days from initial consult to surgery in patients with BMI ≥50 kg/m 2 who were and were not enrolled in medical weight management (MWM) prior to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. We retrospectively identified patients with BMI ≥50 kg/m 2 who had primary sleeve gastrectomy between 2014 and 2019 at two bariatric surgery centres in our healthcare system. Patients presenting after 2017 that received preoperative MWM (n = 28) were compared to a historical cohort of non-MWM patients (n = 118) presenting prior to programme initiation in 2017 on preoperative percent total body weight loss (%TBWL) and days from initial consult to surgery. A total of 151 patients (MWM, 33; non-MWM, 118) met inclusion criteria. BMI was significantly greater in MWM versus non-MWM (p = .018). After propensity score matching, median BMI at initial consult in non-MWM versus MWM no longer differed (p = .922) neither were differences observed on the basis of weight, age, sex, race or ethnicity. After PSM, MWM had significantly lower BMI at surgery (p = .018), lost significantly more weight from consult to surgery (p < .001) and achieved significantly greater median %TBWL from consult to surgery (p < .001). We noted no difference between groups on 6-month weight loss (p = .533). Days from initial consult to surgery did not differ between groups (p < .863). A preoperative MWM programme integrated into multimodal treatment for obesity in patients with a BMI ≥50 kg/m 2 resulted in clinically significant weight loss without prolonging time to surgery., (© 2024 World Obesity Federation.)

Currently, there is no consensus on the best bariatric surgery type for patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥50 kg/m 2 . This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare outcomes of duodenal switch (DS) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in terms of weight loss, resolution of obesity-related comorbidities, and complications among patients with a BMI ≥50 kg/m 2 . A systematic search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science to include studies that compared outcomes of DS and RYGB in patients with BMI ≥50 kg/m 2 . A meta-analysis was carried out, alongside subgroup analyses based on the type of study and duration of follow-up. Twelve articles were included in this study (2678 patients, follow-up: 1-15 years). Patients with DS had 7.31 kg/m 2 higher BMI loss (95% CI: 5.59-9.03, P < .001) and 9.9% more total weight loss (95% CI: 4.47-15.28%, P < .001) compared with RYGB. The rate of complications, reoperation, mortality, and remission of comorbidities including diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obstructive sleep apnea was not significantly different between DS and RYGB. Rate of malnutrition was 8.3% in the DS group compared with 1.2% in RYGB (OR: 5.53, 95% CI: 1.35-22.44, P = .02). In addition, 5.4% DS patients needed revisional surgery for malnutrition versus none in RYGB (OR: 6.1, 95% CI: 1.03-36.33, P = .05), and 24.6% of DS patients developed gallbladder disease needed cholecystectomy versus 4.5% after RYGB (OR: 6.36, 95% CI: 1.70-23.82, P = .01). DS leads to significantly higher BMI and total weight loss in patients with BMI ≥50 kg/m 2 but may be associated with a higher rate of major malnutrition and needed revisional surgery. These should be considered in surgical planning., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Introduction: Severe obesity results in high cardiovascular risk (CVR), increasing morbidity, and mortality. New and improved methods are needed to detect cardiovascular diseases rapidly in severe obesity. microRNAs (miRNAs) has shown promise as diagnostic tools. This study aimed to identify plasma miRNAs useful as biomarkers of CVR in people with severe obesity., Methods: The study included 66 people with severe obesity classified in groups with atheroma (n = 32) and free of plaques (n = 34). Plasma samples were collected 1 month before bariatric surgery and at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Participants were screened for the levels of 188 miRNAs, and 24 promising candidates were individually validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction., Results: After validation, 5 of the 24 miRNAs showed significant differences over time in both groups: miR-375 increased after bariatric surgery, whereas miR-144-5p, miR-20a-3p, miR-145-5p, and miR-21-3p exhibited decreased expression after bariatric surgery. The expression of 3 of the 24 miRNAs also differed between patients with and without atheroma: subjects with plaque had lower miR-126 but higher miR-21-3p and miR-133a-3p. Only miR-133a-3p exhibited exceptional discriminatory ability between subjects with and without plaque (area under the curve, 0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.81-0.99)., Conclusion: A specific signature of c-miRNA comprising miR-375, miR-144-5p, miR-20a-3p, miR-145-5p, and miR-21-3p may facilitate CVR monitoring after bariatric surgery. Furthermore, miR-21-3p, miR-126-3p, and miR-133a-3p show potential as specific biomarkers for subclinical atherosclerosis, with miR-133a-3p potentially able to diagnose subclinical atherosclerosis early in severe obesity., (© 2024 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Abstract Background Few treatments exist for adolescents living with severe obesity. This qualitative study explored the experiences of severely obese adolescents and their families who participated in the BOB study. Methods Twelve adolescents (5 males;7 females; mean age 15 years; BMI > 3.5 s.d; puberty stage 4 +) who were engaged with the research study BOB (a non-randomised, pilot novel obesity treatment programme that involved the insertion of an intra-gastric balloon coupled with a family lifestyle behavioural support programme). Adolescents attended weekly lifestyle sessions before, during and post balloon insertion. All participants were interviewed at 3 months, (halfway through intra-gastric balloon insertion) and at 12 months follow-up (6 months post intra-gastric balloon removal, 3 months post lifestyle intervention). Results All BOB participants had exhausted all treatment options deeming this study their final option. Many alluded to feelings of desperation and referred to a sense of hope that this intervention would be effective. Family involvement and attendance within the structured sessions differed significantly. Adolescents and parents perceived support from the research study ceased when the intra-gastric balloon was removed at 6-months despite attendance post balloon removal being poor. All participants emphasised a need for further support longer term with the integration of the family a critical factor. Conclusions Further research is needed to explore the specific role families play within treatment to optimise health and wellbeing outcomes. Adolescents perspectives should be integrated within treatment to inform and improve the effectiveness of future treatment programmes for severely obese adolescents and their families.

This study investigated the effects of short-term and long-term periods (8 and 16 weeks) of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cardiovascular components, blood lipids, and 6-min walking test performance in obese young boys (age = 16.2 ± 0.7) with >34% body fat. The participants were split into two groups: severe obesity (SOG; n = 17) and moderate obesity (MOG; n = 16). All participants performed on a cycle ergometer for 16 weeks (3 times per week) of HIIT at 100% peak power output at the ventilatory threshold and recovered at 50% of peak power. Except for BMI, both groups improved all body composition measures after 16 weeks, with a higher percentage of change (Δ) in SOG. The 6-min walking test increased in both groups (p < 0.001). Furthermore, cardiovascular variables, blood lactate concentration at rest and after 5-min post-exercise, blood lipids, and insulin concentrations improved significantly in both groups. After 16 weeks, MOG significantly improved in HRpeak, blood glucose concentration, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE), but the percentage of change (Δ) was higher in SOG for all the other variables. SOG showed a higher (Δ) waist-to-hip ratio, maximum heart rate, resting heart rate, systolic blood pressure, blood lactate at 5-min post-exercise, and triglyceride concentrations after 8 and 16 weeks of training. In conclusion, a long-term HIIT program appears to be an appropriate training approach for obese boys with extra body fat. However, considering the RPE values, short-duration training sessions should be planned.