normal weight (BMI <24.9) overweight (BMI 25 - 29.9) obese (BMI>30)Researchers measured their rates of attaining guideline targets of blood pressure and cholesterol. The majority of patients (3,261) were obese; 2,791 were overweight, and 1,305 were normal weight. After controlling for age, sex, diabetes, use of pharmacologic therapies and other confounders, the investigators found that obese patients were less likely to attain blood pressure and HDL levels than overweight or normal weight patients. However, there was no significant difference with regard to attainment of LDL-cholesterol targets.

Overall, 42 per cent of patients attained guideline recommended blood pressure targets, and 21 per cent achieved both blood pressure and LDL-cholesterol targets. The rate of attainment was less for overweight, and still less for obese patients in comparison with normal weight individuals.

Among normal weight patients, 52 per cent reached blood pressure targets; among overweight patients, 47 per cent reached blood pressure targets; and among obese patients, 34 per cent reached blood pressure targets.

Dr. Charles Kerr, president of the Canadian Cardiovascular Society added that the firm linkage of obesity with a failure to achieve known targets for risk prevention in coronary artery disease is important. "It is very clear that there is an interaction here that is critical," says Dr. Kerr. "You can't as effectively lower your cholesterol or your blood pressure without losing the weight."

Obesity is associated with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes - three well-known risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Current Canadian, European, and American guidelines call for lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication to control these risk factors to reduce obesity-related morbidity and mortality.

Source: Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada