Endothelial dysfunction in obesity

Abstract

ABSTRACT Obesity is a condition caused by excess fat buildup, often measured using the body mass index (BMI) and categorized into underweight, normal weight, and obesity. Obesity is a global epidemic with an alarmingly rising incidence. Obesity is closely associated with insulin resistance, metabolic disorders, hypertension, and atherosclerosis, as well as endothelial dysfunction, which leads to numerous diseases. Noncommunicable diseases are significantly associated with high BMI and can have a negative impact on physical and psychological conditions. Endothelium, the internal lining of blood vessels, controls vascular tone, inflammation, and clotting processes. Endothelial dysfunction is a clinical complication characterized by the loss of normal endothelial cell homeostatic mechanisms. Reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide can be moderately related to endothelial dysfunction, which promotes vascular abruptions such as thrombosis, inflammation, plaque rupture, and other related conditions. The rise in obesity incidence and its global status highlights the urgent need to address responsible factors such as sedentary lifestyles, bad food habits, and globalization. Factors such as dietary modifications, low-cost food and beverages, and liberalization of international trade contribute to obesity, whereas factors such as genetics, poor diet, and lack of physical activity can also contribute to obesity.