Impact of obesity on women's health

Rechkemmer A.; Cabrera Ramos S. · Revista Peruana de Ginecologia y Obstetricia (2025) · DOI: 10.31403/rpgo.v71i2742

Resumen

Throughout history, obesity has been perceived in diferent ways, sometimes as a symbol of health and prosperity, and sometimes as a disease. Nowadays, there is consensus in considering it as a chronic disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation and linked to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and pregnancy complications. It is most commonly diagnosed by means of the Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI often does not accurately refect the problem. For this reason, other methods such as Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) and Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) have been proposed. Anthropometric parameters such as skinfold thickness and mid-arm circumference are also used. Obesity is a global public health problem whose prevalence has been increasing in recent decades. In Peru, it is estimated that two-thirds of women of reproductive age have a BMI 25. There are genetic and environmental factors involved in the development of obesity. The metabolic changes associated with obesity are reviewed, including hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenism, increased leptin and other pro-infammatory adipokines, and decreased adiponectin. Obese women have a higher risk of developing insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, coronary heart disease and high blood pressure. The prevalence of menstrual irregularities due to anovulation and infertility increases, with a lower rate of live births in in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, and an increase in the abortion rate. Postmenopausal women tend to gain weight, due to hormonal changes and less physical activity, with a preferential increase in visceral fat. In obese women, the risk of breast, endometrial and ovarian cancer increases. Obese pregnant women have a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, fetal macrosomia and congenital anomalies. It is important to prevent obesity with early education programs regarding the short- and long-term medical consequences of obesity, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Treatment includes diet and exercise, and medical and surgical management options.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia; Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos