The prevalence of overweight or obesity has increased in India, with almost the same percentage of men and women being obese. According to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) statistics, the prevalence of obesity among Indians increased in 2019-21 compared to 2015-16. Nearly one out of every four people is overweight, up from one out of every five previously.

Obesity is measured using the BMI (Body Mass Index) (BMI). Obesity is defined as having a BMI of more than 30; overweight is defined as having a BMI of between 25 and 29.9.

According to the most recent National Family Health Study (NFHS-5), the government's most comprehensive household survey of health and socioeconomic factors, approximately 23% of men and 24% of women have a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher, a 4% increase for both genders over 2015-16. According to the findings, 3.4 percent of children under the age of five are now overweight, up from 2.1 percent in 2015-16.

According to the survey, 57 percent of women and 48 percent of men have a waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) of greater than 30, putting them at a higher risk of metabolic problems. Anemia affects 57% of women and 25% of men between the ages of 15 and 49.

The anthropometric data on the height and weight of women aged 15-49 and men aged 15-54 was collected for the 2019-21 NFHS. This data was used to determine many nutritional indicators, including women's height and BMI (BMI).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-total-fertility-rate-declines-from-22-to-20-national-family-health-survey-476825">Also read | India's total fertility rate declines from 2.2 to 2.0: National Family Health Survey</a> 
&nbsp;

India's fertility rate dips below replacement level

Decades of government efforts to curb population growth have finally yielded the desired outcome.

The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has decreased from 2.2 in 2015-16 to 2.0 in 2019-21, which is the average number of children a woman would have throughout her lifetime. It was discovered in the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey, or NFHS-5, which began in 2019 and lasted two years.

India's TFR of two children per woman is now below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman.

Replacement level fertility refers to the point at which a population completely replaces itself from generation to generation, resulting in a zero population increase if the level is maintained for long enough.

In most nations, this rate is around 2.1 children per woman, while it varies slightly depending on mortality rates. Only if mortality rates remained constant and migration had no influence would replacement level fertility lead to zero population growth.

Meanwhile, below-replacement fertility leads to negative population increase and, in the long run, demographic extinction. India's TFR decreased from 3.4 to 2.0 children between 1992-93 and 2019-21.

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The prevalence of overweight or obesity has increased in India, with almost the same percentage of men and women being obese. According to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) statistics, the prevalence of obesity among Indians increased in 2019-21 compared to 2015-16.

The prevalence of overweight or obesity has increased in India, with almost the same percentage of men and women being obese. According to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) statistics, the prevalence of obesity among Indians increased in 2019-21 compared to 2015-16. Nearly one out of every four people is overweight, up from one out of every five previously. Obesity is measured using the BMI (Body Mass Index) (BMI). Obesity is defined as having a BMI of more than 30; overweight is defined as having a BMI of between 25 and 29.9. According to the most recent National Family Health Study (NFHS-5), the government's most comprehensive household survey of health and socioeconomic factors, approximately 23% of men and 24% of women have a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher, a 4% increase for both genders over 2015-16. According to the findings, 3.4 percent of children under the age of five are now overweight, up from 2.1 percent in 2015-16. According to the survey, 57 percent of women and 48 percent of men have a waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) of greater than 30, putting them at a higher risk of metabolic problems. Anemia affects 57% of women and 25% of men between the ages of 15 and 49. The anthropometric data on the height and weight of women aged 15-49 and men aged 15-54 was collected for the 2019-21 NFHS. This data was used to determine many nutritional indicators, including women's height and BMI (BMI). Also read | India's total fertility rate declines from 2.2 to 2.0: National Family Health Survey India's fertility rate dips below replacement level Decades of government efforts to curb population growth have finally yielded the desired outcome. The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has decreased from 2.2 in 2015-16 to 2.0 in 2019-21, which is the average number of children a woman would have throughout her lifetime. It was discovered in the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey, or NFHS-5, which began in 2019 and lasted two years. India's TFR of two children per woman is now below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. Replacement level fertility refers to the point at which a population completely replaces itself from generation to generation, resulting in a zero population increase if the level is maintained for long enough. In most nations, this rate is around 2.1 children per woman, while it varies slightly depending on mortality rates. Only if mortality rates remained constant and migration had no influence would replacement level fertility lead to zero population growth. Meanwhile, below-replacement fertility leads to negative population increase and, in the long run, demographic extinction. India's TFR decreased from 3.4 to 2.0 children between 1992-93 and 2019-21. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Obesity growing in India and fertility is dipping: National Family Health Survey

Estimates say that 7 out of 10 people in the UK will be obese or overweight by 2040. At least 21 million people will be obese, which is 36% of the adult population. What is the government of Boris Johnson doing to prevent this crisis? Nothing. Palki Sharma has the details.

Gravitas: Over 42 million UK adults will be overweight by 2040

More than 42 million adults in the United States are projected to be either overweight or obese by the year 2040. The alarming report also raises concerns over cancer in the country as overweight and obese people are at a higher risk of 13 types of cancer

Over 20,000 cancer cases in UK attributed to obesity

According to a small Turkish study, severe obesity may weaken the COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness in those who have never been infected with the virus.

Turkish Study shows obesity may weaken vaccine protection in the never infected

After a relatively stable trend in COVID-19 cases, India is again recording a rise in coronavirus infections dominated by the omicron variant. a total of 58,000 new cases were reported in India in the last 24 hours, which is a 55 percent increase in cases in just one day.

India reports a 55 percent increase in cases in just one day, with 58,000 new COVID-19 cases

A survey by India's Ministry of Health has found that Indians have become more obese, hypertensive and prone to diabetes. Is this due to lockdowns and restrictions during the pandemic? Watch this report by Palki Sharma to find out.

Gravitas: Covid Impact? Indians have become more obese and hypertensive

In a bid to control the increasing problem of obesity in children, Spain has decided to ban all advertisements about sweets that are aimed at kids.<o:p></o:p>

Spain’s Consumer Affairs Minister Alberto Garzon announced on Thursday that all advertisements for high-sugar food such as chocolate bars, candies, sodas and more will not be allowed to showcase anywhere.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antidepressant-drug-fluvoxamine-can-help-reduce-covid-hospitalisations-by-30-study-424778">Antidepressant drug Fluvoxamine can help reduce Covid hospitalisations by 30%: Study</a></o:p>

This ban will come into place from 2022 and will target almost all platforms such as television, radio, online outlets and mobile apps. The content aired for under 16s on these platforms will be altered to make sure no promotion of high-sugar food and drinks is done.<o:p></o:p>

"Minors are vulnerable consumers and it is our duty to protect them from advertising," Garzon said. From next year, advertisements about chocolate bars. Ice cream, sodas, soft drinks, pastries and more will face a complete ban.<o:p></o:p>

The announcement of the ban came as several studies found out that nearly one in three children in the country are considered to be obese — excess of bodyweight. The figures have increased alarmingly as in 1984 only three per cent children were considered to be obese.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/she-deleted-her-facebook-account-and-says-it-helped-her-lose-32-kg-424728">She deleted her Facebook account, and says it helped her lose 32 kg</a></o:p>

Experts believe that one main reason behind the obesity epidemic is advertisements as children tend to gather information and then develop curiosity for the product from these advertisements.<o:p></o:p>

Spain is not the only country going through this problem. The percentage of obese children has increased from four per cent in 1975 to nearly 18 per cent now, as per figures from the World Health Organization (WHO).<o:p></o:p>

The products being banned from advertisement by Spain are the same ones that the WHO experts had flagged as being 'harmful' for children, especially in the age group of five to 19.<o:p></o:p>

In a bid to control the increasing problem of obesity in children, Spain has decided to ban all advertisements about sweets that are aimed at kids. Spain’s Consumer Affairs Minister Alberto Garzon announced on Thursday that all advertisements for high-sugar food such as chocolate bars, candies, sodas and more will not be allowed to showcase anywhere.

In a bid to control the increasing problem of obesity in children, Spain has decided to ban all advertisements about sweets that are aimed at kids. Spain’s Consumer Affairs Minister Alberto Garzon announced on Thursday that all advertisements for high-sugar food such as chocolate bars, candies, sodas and more will not be allowed to showcase anywhere. Also read | Antidepressant drug Fluvoxamine can help reduce Covid hospitalisations by 30%: Study This ban will come into place from 2022 and will target almost all platforms such as television, radio, online outlets and mobile apps. The content aired for under 16s on these platforms will be altered to make sure no promotion of high-sugar food and drinks is done. "Minors are vulnerable consumers and it is our duty to protect them from advertising," Garzon said. From next year, advertisements about chocolate bars. Ice cream, sodas, soft drinks, pastries and more will face a complete ban. The announcement of the ban came as several studies found out that nearly one in three children in the country are considered to be obese — excess of bodyweight. The figures have increased alarmingly as in 1984 only three per cent children were considered to be obese. Also read | She deleted her Facebook account, and says it helped her lose 32 kg Experts believe that one main reason behind the obesity epidemic is advertisements as children tend to gather information and then develop curiosity for the product from these advertisements. Spain is not the only country going through this problem. The percentage of obese children has increased from four per cent in 1975 to nearly 18 per cent now, as per figures from the World Health Organization (WHO). The products being banned from advertisement by Spain are the same ones that the WHO experts had flagged as being 'harmful' for children, especially in the age group of five to 19.

'Harmful': Spain to ban advertisement of sweets to tackle obesity in children

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution.

Air pollution has been linked to obesity in studies all around the world, but this is the first time a new study in the country has proven how high levels of air pollution might contribute to weight gain.

This is also one of the first studies in India among teenage school children to reveal a strong correlation between obesity and asthma, as well as the possibility that air pollution plays a role in both.&nbsp;

Obese children had a 79 per cent higher likelihood of having asthma, according to the study.

This link was strongest in Delhi, which has hazardous air quality year after year.&nbsp;

The Lung Care Foundation studied 3,157 students from 12 schools in Delhi, as well as the southern Indian cities of Kottayam and Mysuru, which have better air than Delhi.

It was discovered that 39.8% of children in Delhi were overweight, compared to 16.4% in Kottayam and Mysuru.

According to the study, this aligns "extremely well" with the reported particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in these cities, which are harmful microscopic contaminants in the air.

Delhi is one of the world's most polluted cities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution.

According to a new study, being overweight is caused not just by a lack of exercise or a poor diet, but also by being exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution. Air pollution has been linked to obesity in studies all around the world, but this is the first time a new study in the country has proven how high levels of air pollution might contribute to weight gain. This is also one of the first studies in India among teenage school children to reveal a strong correlation between obesity and asthma, as well as the possibility that air pollution plays a role in both. Obese children had a 79 per cent higher likelihood of having asthma, according to the study. This link was strongest in Delhi, which has hazardous air quality year after year. The Lung Care Foundation studied 3,157 students from 12 schools in Delhi, as well as the southern Indian cities of Kottayam and Mysuru, which have better air than Delhi. It was discovered that 39.8% of children in Delhi were overweight, compared to 16.4% in Kottayam and Mysuru. According to the study, this aligns "extremely well" with the reported particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in these cities, which are harmful microscopic contaminants in the air. Delhi is one of the world's most polluted cities. (With inputs from agencies)

Air pollution can make children overweight, increase the risk of developing asthma

Obesity is linked to many illnesses. But a new research suggests that obesity in mothers while they were pregnant increases chances of bowel cancer in their children later in life.

Researchers say that adult offsprings of overweight women have high chances of developing bowel cancer than those children whose mothers were underweight or had healthy weight.

The research has been published in the journal Gut. The researchers analysed data collected from mothers who received prenatal care between 1959 and 1966 in Oakland, California. Information was obtained of there health six months before they became pregnant. The team of researchers tracked health of more than 18,000 children through 2019.

68 of the children developed bowel cancel in adulthood. Researchers found that the children who had overweight mothers had likelihood of 2.5 times more than those children with mothers who were not obese.

Obesity is linked to many illnesses. But a new research suggests that obesity in mothers while they were pregnant increases chances of bowel cancer in their children later in life.

Obesity is linked to many illnesses. But a new research suggests that obesity in mothers while they were pregnant increases chances of bowel cancer in their children later in life. Researchers say that adult offsprings of overweight women have high chances of developing bowel cancer than those children whose mothers were underweight or had healthy weight. The research has been published in the journal Gut. The researchers analysed data collected from mothers who received prenatal care between 1959 and 1966 in Oakland, California. Information was obtained of there health six months before they became pregnant. The team of researchers tracked health of more than 18,000 children through 2019. 68 of the children developed bowel cancel in adulthood. Researchers found that the children who had overweight mothers had likelihood of 2.5 times more than those children with mothers who were not obese.

Mother's obesity linked with adulthood cancer in children: Study

A stress signal received by the heart from fat could help protect against cardiac damage induced by obesity, a new study led by UT Southwestern researchers suggests.

The finding, published online in&nbsp;Cell Metabolism, might help explain the “obesity paradox,” a phenomenon where obese individuals have better short- and medium-term cardiovascular disease prognoses compared with those who are lean, but with ultimately worse long-term outcomes.

"The mechanism we have identified here could be one of many that protects the heart in obesity," said study leader Philipp E. Scherer, PhD, Professor of Internal Medicine and Cell Biology at UTSW who has long studied fat metabolism.

Study co-leader Clair Crewe, PhD, Assistant Instructor of Internal Medicine at UTSW, said the metabolic stress of obesity gradually makes fat tissue dysfunctional, causing its mitochondria — the cellular organelles that generate energy — to shrink and die. Eventually, this unhealthy fat loses the ability to store lipids generated by excess calories in food, poisoning other organs through an effect called lipotoxicity. Some organs, including the heart, appear to mount a preemptive defence to protect against lipotoxicity. But how the heart senses fat's dysfunctional state has been unknown.

In their study, Dr Crewe, Dr Scherer, and their colleagues used a genetic technique to speed the loss of mitochondrial mass and function in mice. When these animals ate a high-fat diet and became obese, the researchers found that the rodents' fat cells began sending out extracellular vesicles filled with small pieces of dying mitochondria. Some of these mitochondrial snippets travelled through the bloodstream to the heart, triggering oxidative stress, a state in which cells generate harmful free radicals.

To counteract this stress, heart cells produce a flood of protective antioxidant molecules. This protective backlash was so strong that when the scientists injected mice with extracellular vesicles filled with mitochondrial snippets and later induced a heart attack, the animals had significantly less damage to their hearts compared with mice that didn't receive an injection.

Further research using fat tissue sampled from obese patients showed that these cells also release mitochondria-filled extracellular vesicles, Dr Crewe said, suggesting that the effects observed in mice also take place in humans.

Eventually, she explained, the heart and other organs in obese individuals become overwhelmed by lipotoxic effects, leading to many of obesity's comorbidities. However, learning how to artificially generate the protective mechanism identified in this study could lead to new ways to buffer obesity's negative consequences. This knowledge could even suggest strategies to protect the heart against damage in lean individuals as well.

“By better understanding the distress signal from fat,” Dr Crewe said, “We may be able to harness the mechanism to improve heart health in obese and non-obese individuals alike.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A stress signal received by the heart from fat could help protect against cardiac damage induced by obesity, a new study led by UT Southwestern researchers suggests.

A stress signal received by the heart from fat could help protect against cardiac damage induced by obesity, a new study led by UT Southwestern researchers suggests. The finding, published online in Cell Metabolism, might help explain the “obesity paradox,” a phenomenon where obese individuals have better short- and medium-term cardiovascular disease prognoses compared with those who are lean, but with ultimately worse long-term outcomes. "The mechanism we have identified here could be one of many that protects the heart in obesity," said study leader Philipp E. Scherer, PhD, Professor of Internal Medicine and Cell Biology at UTSW who has long studied fat metabolism. Study co-leader Clair Crewe, PhD, Assistant Instructor of Internal Medicine at UTSW, said the metabolic stress of obesity gradually makes fat tissue dysfunctional, causing its mitochondria — the cellular organelles that generate energy — to shrink and die. Eventually, this unhealthy fat loses the ability to store lipids generated by excess calories in food, poisoning other organs through an effect called lipotoxicity. Some organs, including the heart, appear to mount a preemptive defence to protect against lipotoxicity. But how the heart senses fat's dysfunctional state has been unknown. In their study, Dr Crewe, Dr Scherer, and their colleagues used a genetic technique to speed the loss of mitochondrial mass and function in mice. When these animals ate a high-fat diet and became obese, the researchers found that the rodents' fat cells began sending out extracellular vesicles filled with small pieces of dying mitochondria. Some of these mitochondrial snippets travelled through the bloodstream to the heart, triggering oxidative stress, a state in which cells generate harmful free radicals. To counteract this stress, heart cells produce a flood of protective antioxidant molecules. This protective backlash was so strong that when the scientists injected mice with extracellular vesicles filled with mitochondrial snippets and later induced a heart attack, the animals had significantly less damage to their hearts compared with mice that didn't receive an injection. Further research using fat tissue sampled from obese patients showed that these cells also release mitochondria-filled extracellular vesicles, Dr Crewe said, suggesting that the effects observed in mice also take place in humans. Eventually, she explained, the heart and other organs in obese individuals become overwhelmed by lipotoxic effects, leading to many of obesity's comorbidities. However, learning how to artificially generate the protective mechanism identified in this study could lead to new ways to buffer obesity's negative consequences. This knowledge could even suggest strategies to protect the heart against damage in lean individuals as well. “By better understanding the distress signal from fat,” Dr Crewe said, “We may be able to harness the mechanism to improve heart health in obese and non-obese individuals alike.” (With inputs from agencies)

Distress signal from fat cells prompts heart to shore up defences against consequences of obesity

A new study has found that metabolism remains unchanged from age 20 to 60. The findings have busted the long-held view that metabolism slows with middle-age - leading to obesity. If not metabolism, then what? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Middle-age bulge? Don't blame metabolism

The growing rate of obesity is a pressing issue in the UK that the local government has been dealing with for some time now. After urging people to exercise and showcasing the calorie count of food on restaurants' menus, the government has come up with a new idea — a surveillance app.

According to local media, the UK government is planning to launch a pilot scheme that will track various routines of locals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/obesity-killed-more-than-smoking-did-study-363567" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/obesity-killed-more-than-smoking-did-study-363567&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiLv_TxrP7xAhUBxzgGHQgDBbMQFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-qmLaBu55yrpRPYufxBcs" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/obesity-killed-more-than-smoking-did-study-363567" target="_blank">Obesity&nbsp;killed more than smoking did: Study</a>

This programme will observe the spending habits and routines of locals, such as shopping lists, running errands, and more. On the basis of the analysis, the people who choose to live a healthier lifestyle will be rewarded for their ‘superior’ lifestyle choices.

These incentives will be made available to people who opt for less fattening food and walk more to stay healthy. As per a local media house, the Telegraph, this is a government-backed programme.

The people who buy more vegetables and fruits, or participate more in walking and running activities will be given extra points and "free treats". These points can later be exchanged for discounts, concert tickets and more such benefits.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-coronavirus-vaccine-may-be-less-effective-in-obesity-study-367008" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-coronavirus-vaccine-may-be-less-effective-in-obesity-study-367008&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiLv_TxrP7xAhUBxzgGHQgDBbMQFjADegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jHfITaQIbAUIRD0odcgau" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-coronavirus-vaccine-may-be-less-effective-in-obesity-study-367008" target="_blank">Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in&nbsp;obesity: Study</a>

An app is being developed to make this idea come true and companies are already signing up to participate in the programme. A nationwide rollout of the app is being predicted by the year-end to coordinate the launch with the new-year resolutions trend.

"There is a whole team in Downing Street working on this, and the prime minister thinks that we simply cannot go on as before and that we must now tackle it head-on," an unnamed source was quoted by the Telegraph.

This project is expected to cost nearly £6 million and will reportedly be promoted personally by the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who himself, reportedly, is on a strict diet.

The growing rate of obesity is a pressing issue in the UK that the local government has been dealing with for some time now. After urging people to exercise and showcasing the calorie count of food on restaurants' menus, the government has come up with a new idea — a surveillance app.

The growing rate of obesity is a pressing issue in the UK that the local government has been dealing with for some time now. After urging people to exercise and showcasing the calorie count of food on restaurants' menus, the government has come up with a new idea — a surveillance app. According to local media, the UK government is planning to launch a pilot scheme that will track various routines of locals. Also read | Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study This programme will observe the spending habits and routines of locals, such as shopping lists, running errands, and more. On the basis of the analysis, the people who choose to live a healthier lifestyle will be rewarded for their ‘superior’ lifestyle choices. These incentives will be made available to people who opt for less fattening food and walk more to stay healthy. As per a local media house, the Telegraph, this is a government-backed programme. The people who buy more vegetables and fruits, or participate more in walking and running activities will be given extra points and "free treats". These points can later be exchanged for discounts, concert tickets and more such benefits. Also read | Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in obesity: Study An app is being developed to make this idea come true and companies are already signing up to participate in the programme. A nationwide rollout of the app is being predicted by the year-end to coordinate the launch with the new-year resolutions trend. "There is a whole team in Downing Street working on this, and the prime minister thinks that we simply cannot go on as before and that we must now tackle it head-on," an unnamed source was quoted by the Telegraph. This project is expected to cost nearly £6 million and will reportedly be promoted personally by the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who himself, reportedly, is on a strict diet.

UK government to launch surveillance app to fight obesity

UK will ban junk food advertisements from airing on TV before 9 PM. This is aimed at fighting obesity. Do other countries have similar rules? What about India? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: UK to ban junk food Ads before 9 PM

[Finland], April 11 (ANI): During a recent study, researchers at the Obesity Research Unit of the University of Helsinki found that obesity clearly reduces mitochondrial gene expression in fat tissue or adipose tissue. 
 
Mitochondria are important cellular powerplants that process all of our energy intakes. If the pathways associated with breaking down nutrients are lazy, the changes can often have health-related consequences. The study was recently published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine. 
 
A total of 49 pairs of identical twins discordant for bodyweight participated in the study conducted at the University of Helsinki: their body composition and metabolism were studied in detail, and biopsies from adipose and muscle tissue were collected. Multiple techniques for analysing the genome-wide gene expression, the proteome, and the metabolome were used in the study. 
 
According to the findings, the pathways responsible for mitochondrial metabolism in adipose tissue were greatly reduced by obesity. Since mitochondria are key to cellular energy production, their reduced function can maintain obesity. For the first time, the study also compared the effects of obesity specifically on the mitochondria in muscle tissue in these identical twin pairs: muscle mitochondria too were found to be out of tune, but the change was less distinct than in adipose tissue. 
 
The study provided strong evidence of a connection between the low performance of adipose tissue mitochondria and a proinflammatory state. Furthermore, the findings indicate that metabolic changes in adipose tissue are associated with increased accumulation of fat in the liver, prediabetic disorders of glucose and insulin metabolism as well as cholesterol."If mitochondria, the cellular powerplants, are compared to the engine of a car, you could say that the power output decreases as weight increases. 
 
A low-powered mitochondrial engine may also generate toxic exhaust fumes, which can cause a pro-inflammatory state in adipose tissue and, consequently, the onset of diseases associated with obesity," says Professor Kirsi Pietilainen from the Obesity Research Unit, University of Helsinki."What was surprising was that the mitochondrial pathways in muscle had no association with these adverse health effects," Pietilainen adds. 
 
Obesity also affected amino acid metabolism. In the study, changes in mitochondrial function were also seen in amino acid metabolism. The metabolism of branched-chain amino acids, which are essential to humans, was weakened in the mitochondria of both adipose tissue and muscle tissue."This finding was of particular significance because the reduced breakdown of these amino acids and the resulting heightened concentration in blood has also been directly linked with prediabetic changes and the accumulation of liver fat in prior twin studies," says Pietilainen. 
 
Obesity, with its numerous associated diseases, is a common phenomenon that is continuously increasing in prevalence. While lifestyle influences the onset of obesity, genes also have a significant role."Identical twins have the same genes, and their weight is usually fairly similar. In fact, studying twins is the best way to investigate the interplay between genes and lifestyle. In spite of their identical genome, the genes and even mitochondria of twins can function on different activity levels. We utilised this characteristic in our study when looking into the effects of weight on tissue function," Pietilainen says.&nbsp;

[Finland], April 11 (ANI): During a recent study, researchers at the Obesity Research Unit of the University of Helsinki found that obesity clearly reduces mitochondrial gene expression in fat tissue or adipose tissue.

[Finland], April 11 (ANI): During a recent study, researchers at the Obesity Research Unit of the University of Helsinki found that obesity clearly reduces mitochondrial gene expression in fat tissue or adipose tissue. Mitochondria are important cellular powerplants that process all of our energy intakes. If the pathways associated with breaking down nutrients are lazy, the changes can often have health-related consequences. The study was recently published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine. A total of 49 pairs of identical twins discordant for bodyweight participated in the study conducted at the University of Helsinki: their body composition and metabolism were studied in detail, and biopsies from adipose and muscle tissue were collected. Multiple techniques for analysing the genome-wide gene expression, the proteome, and the metabolome were used in the study. According to the findings, the pathways responsible for mitochondrial metabolism in adipose tissue were greatly reduced by obesity. Since mitochondria are key to cellular energy production, their reduced function can maintain obesity. For the first time, the study also compared the effects of obesity specifically on the mitochondria in muscle tissue in these identical twin pairs: muscle mitochondria too were found to be out of tune, but the change was less distinct than in adipose tissue. The study provided strong evidence of a connection between the low performance of adipose tissue mitochondria and a proinflammatory state. Furthermore, the findings indicate that metabolic changes in adipose tissue are associated with increased accumulation of fat in the liver, prediabetic disorders of glucose and insulin metabolism as well as cholesterol."If mitochondria, the cellular powerplants, are compared to the engine of a car, you could say that the power output decreases as weight increases. A low-powered mitochondrial engine may also generate toxic exhaust fumes, which can cause a pro-inflammatory state in adipose tissue and, consequently, the onset of diseases associated with obesity," says Professor Kirsi Pietilainen from the Obesity Research Unit, University of Helsinki."What was surprising was that the mitochondrial pathways in muscle had no association with these adverse health effects," Pietilainen adds. Obesity also affected amino acid metabolism. In the study, changes in mitochondrial function were also seen in amino acid metabolism. The metabolism of branched-chain amino acids, which are essential to humans, was weakened in the mitochondria of both adipose tissue and muscle tissue."This finding was of particular significance because the reduced breakdown of these amino acids and the resulting heightened concentration in blood has also been directly linked with prediabetic changes and the accumulation of liver fat in prior twin studies," says Pietilainen. Obesity, with its numerous associated diseases, is a common phenomenon that is continuously increasing in prevalence. While lifestyle influences the onset of obesity, genes also have a significant role."Identical twins have the same genes, and their weight is usually fairly similar. In fact, studying twins is the best way to investigate the interplay between genes and lifestyle. In spite of their identical genome, the genes and even mitochondria of twins can function on different activity levels. We utilised this characteristic in our study when looking into the effects of weight on tissue function," Pietilainen says.

Obesity reduces mitochondrial gene expression in fat tissue

The majority of global COVID-19 deaths have been in countries where many people are obese, with coronavirus fatality rates 10 times higher in nations where at least 50% of adults are overweight, a global study found on Thursday (March 4).

Obesity a driving factor in COVID-19 deaths, global report finds

The majority of global COVID-19 deaths have been in countries where many people are obese, with coronavirus fatality rates 10 times higher in nations where at least 50% of adults are overweight, a global study found on Thursday.

The report, which described a “dramatic” correlation between countries’ COVID-19 death and obesity rates, found that 90% or 2.2 million of the 2.5 million deaths from the pandemic disease so far were in countries with high levels of obesity.

The study analysed the COVID-19 death figures from Johns Hopkins University in the United States and the World Health Organization’s Global Health Observatory data on obesity.

Strikingly, the authors said, there is no example of a country where people are generally not overweight or obese having high COVID-19 death rates.

“Look at countries like Japan and South Korea, where they have very low levels of COVID-19 deaths as well as very low levels of adult obesity,” said Tim Lobstein, an expert advisor to the World Obesity Federation and visiting professor at Australia’s Sydney University who co-led the report.

“They have prioritised public health across a range of measures, including population weight, and it has paid off in the pandemic.”

By contrast, the report found that in the United States and Britain, for example, both COVID-19 death rates and obesity levels were among the highest.

The United Kingdom has the world’s third-highest coronavirus death rate and the fourth-highest obesity rate - 184 COVID-19 deaths per 100,000 and 63.7% of adults overweight, according to WHO data - followed by the United States, with 152.49 COVID-19 deaths per 100,000 and 67.9% of adults overweight.

John Wilding, a professor of medicine at Britain’s University of Liverpool and president of the World Obesity Federation, said obesity should be recognised as a key COVID-19 health risk and taken into account in vaccination plans.

“It’s really important that we recognise that obesity ... increases the risk,” he said in a statement about the report’s findings. “Therefore, like other diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, people with obesity should be considered for early priority in vaccination programmes across the world.”

The majority of global COVID-19 deaths have been in countries where many people are obese, with coronavirus fatality rates 10 times higher in nations where at least 50% of adults are overweight, a global study found on Thursday.

The majority of global COVID-19 deaths have been in countries where many people are obese, with coronavirus fatality rates 10 times higher in nations where at least 50% of adults are overweight, a global study found on Thursday. The report, which described a “dramatic” correlation between countries’ COVID-19 death and obesity rates, found that 90% or 2.2 million of the 2.5 million deaths from the pandemic disease so far were in countries with high levels of obesity. The study analysed the COVID-19 death figures from Johns Hopkins University in the United States and the World Health Organization’s Global Health Observatory data on obesity. Strikingly, the authors said, there is no example of a country where people are generally not overweight or obese having high COVID-19 death rates. “Look at countries like Japan and South Korea, where they have very low levels of COVID-19 deaths as well as very low levels of adult obesity,” said Tim Lobstein, an expert advisor to the World Obesity Federation and visiting professor at Australia’s Sydney University who co-led the report. “They have prioritised public health across a range of measures, including population weight, and it has paid off in the pandemic.” By contrast, the report found that in the United States and Britain, for example, both COVID-19 death rates and obesity levels were among the highest. The United Kingdom has the world’s third-highest coronavirus death rate and the fourth-highest obesity rate - 184 COVID-19 deaths per 100,000 and 63.7% of adults overweight, according to WHO data - followed by the United States, with 152.49 COVID-19 deaths per 100,000 and 67.9% of adults overweight. John Wilding, a professor of medicine at Britain’s University of Liverpool and president of the World Obesity Federation, said obesity should be recognised as a key COVID-19 health risk and taken into account in vaccination plans. “It’s really important that we recognise that obesity ... increases the risk,” he said in a statement about the report’s findings. “Therefore, like other diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, people with obesity should be considered for early priority in vaccination programmes across the world.”

A new report has found that nations with a high overweight population have the highest death rates from novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

Nearly 2.2 million of the 2.5 million fatalities from Covid-19 were in countries with high levels of overweight people, the report from the World Obesity Federation said.&nbsp;

Countries including the UK, the US and Italy, where over 50 per cent of adults are overweight, have the biggest proportions of Covid-linked deaths.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/obesity-a-bigger-killer-than-smoking-study-363603/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Death rates are 10 times more in nations where over half the adults had a body mass index (BMI) of more than 25kg/m2, a figure from where overweight starts. &nbsp;

Belgium ranks first in terms of the highest level of deaths amongst nations where over 50 per cent of the adult population is overweight.&nbsp;

It is followed by Slovenia and the UK.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-coronavirus-vaccine-may-be-less-effective-in-obesity-study-367008">Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in obesity: Study</a>

Italy and Portugal rank fifth and sixth in the list, while the US is placed at the eighth spot.&nbsp;

Vietnam, which has the second least coronavirus death rate globally, has the lowest level of overweight.&nbsp;

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the report must act as a wake-up call for governments to take measures to control overweight.&nbsp;

"Investment in public health and coordinated, international action to tackle the root causes of obesity is one of the best ways for countries to build resilience in health systems post-pandemic: we urge all countries to seize this moment," he said.&nbsp;

A new report has found that nations with a high overweight population have the highest death rates from novel coronavirus. Nearly 2.2 million of the 2.5 million fatalities from Covid-19 were in countries with high levels of overweight people, the report from the World Obesity Federation said.

A new report has found that nations with a high overweight population have the highest death rates from novel coronavirus. Nearly 2.2 million of the 2.5 million fatalities from Covid-19 were in countries with high levels of overweight people, the report from the World Obesity Federation said. Countries including the UK, the US and Italy, where over 50 per cent of adults are overweight, have the biggest proportions of Covid-linked deaths. Watch | Death rates are 10 times more in nations where over half the adults had a body mass index (BMI) of more than 25kg/m2, a figure from where overweight starts. Belgium ranks first in terms of the highest level of deaths amongst nations where over 50 per cent of the adult population is overweight. It is followed by Slovenia and the UK. Also read | Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in obesity: Study Italy and Portugal rank fifth and sixth in the list, while the US is placed at the eighth spot. Vietnam, which has the second least coronavirus death rate globally, has the lowest level of overweight. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the report must act as a wake-up call for governments to take measures to control overweight. "Investment in public health and coordinated, international action to tackle the root causes of obesity is one of the best ways for countries to build resilience in health systems post-pandemic: we urge all countries to seize this moment," he said.

Overweight countries have highest coronavirus death rates: Report

The popular Pfizer-BioNtech<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=1"> vaccine</a> against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> might be a tad less effective on people suffering from obesity, a new study has revealed.

A group of Italian researchers have discovered that the healthcare workers who were injected with the Pfizer vaccine, and are obese were not able to produce as many antibodies as the other healthy healthcare workers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-vaccines-single-dose-provides-strong-immunity-to-those-who-have-had-covid-19-study-366628" hreflang="en">Pfizer vaccine's single dose provides strong immunity to those who have had Covid-19: Study</a>

The obese healthcare workers were able to produce only half the amount of antibodies after the second jab of the Pfizer vaccine, in comparison to the healthy people.

Although the study is being pursued further and the researchers feel it is too soon as raise questions on the efficacy of the popular vaccine, this study might conclude that people with obesity need an additional booster dose of the vaccine to ensure safety against the deadly coronavirus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-third-dose-pfizer-to-test-tweaked-vaccine-to-target-s-african-strain-of-coronavirus-366240" hreflang="en">A third dose? Pfizer to test tweaked vaccine to target S African strain of coronavirus</a>

This has come after an earlier study had suggested that obesity can increase the risk of dying by coronavirus by nearly 50 per cent, and also increases the risk of being hospitalised by 113 per cent.

Aldo Venuti, from the Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri in Rome, worked at a sample group of nearly 248 healthcare workers and assessed the data to reach this conclusion.

As per their study, 99.5 per cent of these healthcare workers had developed an antibody response seven days after receiving the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine. This response was also greater than the people who had recovered from COVID-19 but was not the same in the people who were obsese and overweight.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/large-study-shows-pfizers-coronavirus-vaccine-94-effective-366057" hreflang="en">Large study shows Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine 94% effective</a>

"Since obesity is a major risk factor for morbidity and mortality for patients with Covid-19, it is mandatory to plan an efficient vaccination programme in this subgroup," Venuti said. "Although further studies are needed, this data may have important implications to the development of vaccination strategies for Covid-19, particularly in obese people. If our data was to be confirmed by larger studies, giving obese people an extra dose of the vaccine or a higher dose could be options to be evaluated in this population."

However, this study is not being taken as it is due to its limitation of the sample size. "We always knew that BMI was an enormous predictor of poor immune response to vaccines, so this paper is definitely interesting, although it is based on a rather small preliminary dataset," Danny Altmann, a professor of immunology at Imperial College London was quoted by the Guardian. "It confirms that having a vaccinated population isn’t synonymous with having an immune population, especially in a country with high obesity, and emphasises the vital need for long-term immune monitoring programmes."

The popular Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine against coronavirus might be a tad less effective on people suffering from obesity, a new study has revealed. A group of Italian researchers have discovered that the healthcare workers who were injected with the Pfizer vaccine, and are obese were not able to produce as many antibodies as the other healthy healthcare workers.

The popular Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine against coronavirus might be a tad less effective on people suffering from obesity, a new study has revealed. A group of Italian researchers have discovered that the healthcare workers who were injected with the Pfizer vaccine, and are obese were not able to produce as many antibodies as the other healthy healthcare workers. Also read | Pfizer vaccine's single dose provides strong immunity to those who have had Covid-19: Study The obese healthcare workers were able to produce only half the amount of antibodies after the second jab of the Pfizer vaccine, in comparison to the healthy people. Although the study is being pursued further and the researchers feel it is too soon as raise questions on the efficacy of the popular vaccine, this study might conclude that people with obesity need an additional booster dose of the vaccine to ensure safety against the deadly coronavirus. Also read | A third dose? Pfizer to test tweaked vaccine to target S African strain of coronavirus This has come after an earlier study had suggested that obesity can increase the risk of dying by coronavirus by nearly 50 per cent, and also increases the risk of being hospitalised by 113 per cent. Aldo Venuti, from the Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri in Rome, worked at a sample group of nearly 248 healthcare workers and assessed the data to reach this conclusion. As per their study, 99.5 per cent of these healthcare workers had developed an antibody response seven days after receiving the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine. This response was also greater than the people who had recovered from COVID-19 but was not the same in the people who were obsese and overweight. Also read | Large study shows Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine 94% effective "Since obesity is a major risk factor for morbidity and mortality for patients with Covid-19, it is mandatory to plan an efficient vaccination programme in this subgroup," Venuti said. "Although further studies are needed, this data may have important implications to the development of vaccination strategies for Covid-19, particularly in obese people. If our data was to be confirmed by larger studies, giving obese people an extra dose of the vaccine or a higher dose could be options to be evaluated in this population." However, this study is not being taken as it is due to its limitation of the sample size. "We always knew that BMI was an enormous predictor of poor immune response to vaccines, so this paper is definitely interesting, although it is based on a rather small preliminary dataset," Danny Altmann, a professor of immunology at Imperial College London was quoted by the Guardian. "It confirms that having a vaccinated population isn’t synonymous with having an immune population, especially in a country with high obesity, and emphasises the vital need for long-term immune monitoring programmes."

Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in obesity: Study

If you have been contemplating joining a gym and going for a morning jog, scientists have an easy for you — yes!

Since the pandemic began and several countries went into repeated lockdowns, a lot of people started gaining weight due to lack of exercise and increased intake of unhealthy food. This has led to more people becoming obese and overweight.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/gamers-listen-up-even-pigs-can-play-video-games-study-has-found-363689" hreflang="en">Even pigs can play video games, study has found</a>

This, researchers believe, can lead to increased chances of getting infected with cancer.

Obesity and being overweight leads to people being vulnerable to tissue damage and the development of a tumour. Scientists have warned individuals to start eating healthy and have urged people to start exercising, be it in-home or in parks.

Researchers have found out that while smoking and tobacco are still the number one cause of cancer in the UK, obesity is a very close second reason now, especially after the extended lockdown. Scientists have also warned that obesity can soon become the main cause of cancer if not controlled now.

This change has also come as more people are now turning away from smoking and tobacco but more and more people, especially women, are becoming overweight and obese.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/obesity-killed-more-than-smoking-did-study-363567" hreflang="en">Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study</a>

It has been predicted that by the year 2040, obesity will be the main reason behind cancer in women, The same pattern is being predicted for men a few years later too.

The scientists have also observed that people who exercise regularly and have improved and healthy diets have had fewer chances of cancer returning after recovery, especially in cases of breast and bowel cancers.

In an experiment carried out on mice, scientists observed that a group of mice who led a lifestyle with no or less physical activity had increased levels of liver inflammation, leading to tumours, in comparison to the group of mice who were placed on treadmills for half-hour, three times a week.

Another similar study found that mice who exercised had less fat in their liver. "We wanted to see if exercise in mice – crucially, a gentle routine that may mirror exercise achievable for frailer people – could help throw immune decline into reverse and help reduce the risk of liver tumours developing," said Prof Derek Mann, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer.

If you have been contemplating joining a gym and going for a morning jog, scientists have an easy for you — yes! Since the pandemic began and several countries went into repeated lockdowns, a lot of people started gaining weight due to lack of exercise and increased intake of unhealthy food.

If you have been contemplating joining a gym and going for a morning jog, scientists have an easy for you — yes! Since the pandemic began and several countries went into repeated lockdowns, a lot of people started gaining weight due to lack of exercise and increased intake of unhealthy food. This has led to more people becoming obese and overweight. Also read| Even pigs can play video games, study has found This, researchers believe, can lead to increased chances of getting infected with cancer. Obesity and being overweight leads to people being vulnerable to tissue damage and the development of a tumour. Scientists have warned individuals to start eating healthy and have urged people to start exercising, be it in-home or in parks. Researchers have found out that while smoking and tobacco are still the number one cause of cancer in the UK, obesity is a very close second reason now, especially after the extended lockdown. Scientists have also warned that obesity can soon become the main cause of cancer if not controlled now. This change has also come as more people are now turning away from smoking and tobacco but more and more people, especially women, are becoming overweight and obese. Also read| Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study It has been predicted that by the year 2040, obesity will be the main reason behind cancer in women, The same pattern is being predicted for men a few years later too. The scientists have also observed that people who exercise regularly and have improved and healthy diets have had fewer chances of cancer returning after recovery, especially in cases of breast and bowel cancers. In an experiment carried out on mice, scientists observed that a group of mice who led a lifestyle with no or less physical activity had increased levels of liver inflammation, leading to tumours, in comparison to the group of mice who were placed on treadmills for half-hour, three times a week. Another similar study found that mice who exercised had less fat in their liver. "We wanted to see if exercise in mice – crucially, a gentle routine that may mirror exercise achievable for frailer people – could help throw immune decline into reverse and help reduce the risk of liver tumours developing," said Prof Derek Mann, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer.

Exercising can help reduce chances of cancer: Study

A new study has found that obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths than smoking in England and Scotland. The new research has been published in the open-access journal BMC Public Health.

Obesity a bigger killer than smoking: Study

Smoking is injurious to health. There is no doubt about that and everyone should refrain from smoking. But other ailments connected with our lifestyle are increasingly giving competition to things that kill us. A new study has found that obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths than smoking in England and Scotland. The new research has been published in open-access journal BMC Public Health.

Between 2003 and 2017, the percentage of deaths attributable to smoking is calculated to have decreased from 23.1 per cent to 19.4 per cent while deaths attributable to obesity and excess body fat are calculated to have increased from 17.9 per cent to 23.1 per cent. The authors estimate that deaths attributable to obesity and excess body fat overtook those attributable to smoking in 2014.

"For several decades smoking has been a major target of public health interventions as it is a leading cause of avoidable deaths. As a result, the prevalence of smoking has fallen in the United Kingdom. At the same time the prevalence of obesity has increased. Our research indicates that, since 2014, obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths in England and Scotland than smoking," said Jim Pell (Glasgow University).

To examine changes in the prevalence of smoking, obesity and excess body fat in adults, the authors analysed data collected between 2003 and 2017 as part of the Health Surveys for England, and Scottish Health Surveys, on 192,239 adults across England and Scotland, who were 50 years old on average.

(With ANI inputs)

Smoking is injurious to health. There is no doubt about that and everyone should refrain from smoking. But other ailments connected with our lifestyle are increasingly giving competition to things that kill us.

Smoking is injurious to health. There is no doubt about that and everyone should refrain from smoking. But other ailments connected with our lifestyle are increasingly giving competition to things that kill us. A new study has found that obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths than smoking in England and Scotland. The new research has been published in open-access journal BMC Public Health. Between 2003 and 2017, the percentage of deaths attributable to smoking is calculated to have decreased from 23.1 per cent to 19.4 per cent while deaths attributable to obesity and excess body fat are calculated to have increased from 17.9 per cent to 23.1 per cent. The authors estimate that deaths attributable to obesity and excess body fat overtook those attributable to smoking in 2014. "For several decades smoking has been a major target of public health interventions as it is a leading cause of avoidable deaths. As a result, the prevalence of smoking has fallen in the United Kingdom. At the same time the prevalence of obesity has increased. Our research indicates that, since 2014, obesity and excess body fat may have contributed to more deaths in England and Scotland than smoking," said Jim Pell (Glasgow University). To examine changes in the prevalence of smoking, obesity and excess body fat in adults, the authors analysed data collected between 2003 and 2017 as part of the Health Surveys for England, and Scottish Health Surveys, on 192,239 adults across England and Scotland, who were 50 years old on average. (With ANI inputs)

Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study

A large-scale international trial in the UK has led to the discovery of a 'game changer' drug for improving the health of people with obesity and could even play a major part in helping reduce the impact of diseases such as COVID-19.

According to a study published on Thursday in the 'New England Journal for Medicine', the drug, semaglutide, works by hijacking the body's own appetite regulating system in the brain leading to reduced hunger and calorie intake.

Over one third (35 per cent) of people who took the new drug for treating obesity lost more than one-fifth of their total body weight, according to the major global study involving University College London (UCL) researchers and almost 2,000 trial participants in 16 countries.

It was also found that three quarters (75 per cent) of people who received semaglutide 2.4 mg lost more than 10 per cent of their body weight and more than one-third lost more than 20 per cent.

The average participant in the trial lost 15.3 kg; this was accompanied by reductions in risk factors for heart disease and diabetes, such as waist circumference, blood fats, blood sugar and blood pressure and reported improvements in their overall quality of life.

The trial's UK Chief Investigator, Professor John Wilding from the University of Liverpool, said semaglutide is already approved and used clinically at a lower dose for treatment of diabetes, so doctors are already familiar with its use.

With evidence from the international trial, semaglutide has been submitted for regulatory approval as a treatment for obesity to the UK's National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE), the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

A large-scale international trial in the UK has led to the discovery of a 'game changer' drug for improving the health of people with obesity and could even play a major part in helping reduce the impact of diseases such as COVID-19.

A large-scale international trial in the UK has led to the discovery of a 'game changer' drug for improving the health of people with obesity and could even play a major part in helping reduce the impact of diseases such as COVID-19. According to a study published on Thursday in the 'New England Journal for Medicine', the drug, semaglutide, works by hijacking the body's own appetite regulating system in the brain leading to reduced hunger and calorie intake. Over one third (35 per cent) of people who took the new drug for treating obesity lost more than one-fifth of their total body weight, according to the major global study involving University College London (UCL) researchers and almost 2,000 trial participants in 16 countries. It was also found that three quarters (75 per cent) of people who received semaglutide 2.4 mg lost more than 10 per cent of their body weight and more than one-third lost more than 20 per cent. The average participant in the trial lost 15.3 kg; this was accompanied by reductions in risk factors for heart disease and diabetes, such as waist circumference, blood fats, blood sugar and blood pressure and reported improvements in their overall quality of life. The trial's UK Chief Investigator, Professor John Wilding from the University of Liverpool, said semaglutide is already approved and used clinically at a lower dose for treatment of diabetes, so doctors are already familiar with its use. With evidence from the international trial, semaglutide has been submitted for regulatory approval as a treatment for obesity to the UK's National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE), the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

UK study finds new 'game changer' drug to fight obesity

Depression and weight problems often go hand in hand - it`s a vicious cycle you need to know about! A study of 58,745 patients` data revealed that people with obesity had a 55 percent increased risk of developing depression over time, and the depressed persons had a 58 percent increased risk of obesity. Forty-three percent of adults with depression already have obesity and women numbering more in this group than men, as found by a national survey. 
 
The suicide ideation in women with a waist circumference of over 105cm is three times more than the women with that below 82.5cm. The mental state, when obesity joins the party, is weakened by two real and debilitating attacks that run parallelly. One attack is physiological - inside the body. Obesity causes joint pain, diabetes, blood pressure etc., which are also the risk factors for depression. Additionally, excessive body fat causes chronic inflammation in the brain that leads to mood and psychiatric disorders. 
 
The other is from outside - the social stigma - how society treats people with obesity. 18.7% to 38% of people with obesity reported experiencing obesity stigma from their educators, employers, health professionals, the media, friends, and family in a WHO (World Health Organization) study. Obesity stigma is associated with increased depression, anxiety and decreased self-esteem. It can also lead to disordered eating, avoidance of physical activity, and avoidance of medical care.Will Weight Loss Improve The Mood Or Improving The Mood Help Weight-Loss? It`s not an `either-or` question say some experts. For example, dieting alone may worsen mood, particularly when it causes a pattern of repeated dieting failure. Conversely, the most common pharmacological treatments for depression have the side effect of weight gain . However, obesity seems to resist physical exercises more than depression. A study found that healthy-weight persons walked per day an average of 11,586 steps, non-depressed obesity patients did 7283 steps, and the depressed obesity patients, 6177 steps . 
 
Hence the expert advice is to jointly address obesity and depression. If you are on medications for depressions, don`t skip your tablets in pursuit of weight-loss.The next step would be to understand obesity well.What exactly is obesity? Obesity is not just a cosmetic condition as popularly perceived. It`s a complex, progressive and multifactorial disease that needs expert medical help to treat, just like clinical depression does. Obesity is measured by BMI (Body Mass Index), which is a measure of your weight in relation to your height.World Health Organization (WHO) considers a BMI more than 30 as Class 1 obesity. BMI above 35 is Class II- serious obesity and BMI above 40 is class III- severe obesity. 
 
The Indian figures are 2.5 lower than these options For Lasting Obesity Solutions For Patients With Low SpiritsMost patients with obesity who have tried diet and exercise, have had some initial success, only to regain the weight. This is not due to their lack of willpower or the wrong diet. There is documented observation that even for a non-depressed obesity patient with a BMI greater than 35, the chances of reaching a normal body weight for a lasting period of time with diet and exercise alone is less than 1 percent. 
 
Minimally invasive bariatric weight-loss surgery might be an option if your BMI is above 32.5 with depression or any other obesity-related co-morbidity; or if your BMI is more than 37.5 without any obesity-related co-morbidity . A study of 11,687 bariatric surgery patients with at least one psychiatric disorder found that a) their excess weight-loss was similar to those with no known mental health disorders, b) Quality of life improvement by 28 percent to 32 per cent was as same, and c) among patients with depression, use of anti-depressant medication dropped by about 20 percent one year after surgery and remained at that level after three years of follow-up .Now-a-days due to COVID-19, many Bariatric Surgeons offer online consultations. One could book an appointment at a center of one`s choice, and discuss the obesity issues with the expert doctor from the convenience of one`s home. 
 
Obesity can be treated with lasting results in patients with depression. The time to act against it is NOW!Disclaimer: This article is sponsored by J&amp;J in public interest. The views and opinions expressed in the article by participating doctors are based on their independent professional judgement. J&amp;J (P) Ltd, BCCL and its group publications disclaim any liability for the accuracy or consequences flowing from adherence to their expert views.This story is provided by Mediawire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/Mediawire)

Depression and weight problems often go hand in hand - it`s a vicious cycle you need to know about! A study of 58,745 patients` data revealed that people with obesity had a 55 percent increased risk of developing depression over time, and the depressed persons had a 58 percent increased risk of obesity.

Depression and weight problems often go hand in hand - it`s a vicious cycle you need to know about! A study of 58,745 patients` data revealed that people with obesity had a 55 percent increased risk of developing depression over time, and the depressed persons had a 58 percent increased risk of obesity. Forty-three percent of adults with depression already have obesity and women numbering more in this group than men, as found by a national survey. The suicide ideation in women with a waist circumference of over 105cm is three times more than the women with that below 82.5cm. The mental state, when obesity joins the party, is weakened by two real and debilitating attacks that run parallelly. One attack is physiological - inside the body. Obesity causes joint pain, diabetes, blood pressure etc., which are also the risk factors for depression. Additionally, excessive body fat causes chronic inflammation in the brain that leads to mood and psychiatric disorders. The other is from outside - the social stigma - how society treats people with obesity. 18.7% to 38% of people with obesity reported experiencing obesity stigma from their educators, employers, health professionals, the media, friends, and family in a WHO (World Health Organization) study. Obesity stigma is associated with increased depression, anxiety and decreased self-esteem. It can also lead to disordered eating, avoidance of physical activity, and avoidance of medical care.Will Weight Loss Improve The Mood Or Improving The Mood Help Weight-Loss? It`s not an `either-or` question say some experts. For example, dieting alone may worsen mood, particularly when it causes a pattern of repeated dieting failure. Conversely, the most common pharmacological treatments for depression have the side effect of weight gain . However, obesity seems to resist physical exercises more than depression. A study found that healthy-weight persons walked per day an average of 11,586 steps, non-depressed obesity patients did 7283 steps, and the depressed obesity patients, 6177 steps . Hence the expert advice is to jointly address obesity and depression. If you are on medications for depressions, don`t skip your tablets in pursuit of weight-loss.The next step would be to understand obesity well.What exactly is obesity? Obesity is not just a cosmetic condition as popularly perceived. It`s a complex, progressive and multifactorial disease that needs expert medical help to treat, just like clinical depression does. Obesity is measured by BMI (Body Mass Index), which is a measure of your weight in relation to your height.World Health Organization (WHO) considers a BMI more than 30 as Class 1 obesity. BMI above 35 is Class II- serious obesity and BMI above 40 is class III- severe obesity. The Indian figures are 2.5 lower than these options For Lasting Obesity Solutions For Patients With Low SpiritsMost patients with obesity who have tried diet and exercise, have had some initial success, only to regain the weight. This is not due to their lack of willpower or the wrong diet. There is documented observation that even for a non-depressed obesity patient with a BMI greater than 35, the chances of reaching a normal body weight for a lasting period of time with diet and exercise alone is less than 1 percent. Minimally invasive bariatric weight-loss surgery might be an option if your BMI is above 32.5 with depression or any other obesity-related co-morbidity; or if your BMI is more than 37.5 without any obesity-related co-morbidity . A study of 11,687 bariatric surgery patients with at least one psychiatric disorder found that a) their excess weight-loss was similar to those with no known mental health disorders, b) Quality of life improvement by 28 percent to 32 per cent was as same, and c) among patients with depression, use of anti-depressant medication dropped by about 20 percent one year after surgery and remained at that level after three years of follow-up .Now-a-days due to COVID-19, many Bariatric Surgeons offer online consultations. One could book an appointment at a center of one`s choice, and discuss the obesity issues with the expert doctor from the convenience of one`s home. Obesity can be treated with lasting results in patients with depression. The time to act against it is NOW!Disclaimer: This article is sponsored by J&J in public interest. The views and opinions expressed in the article by participating doctors are based on their independent professional judgement. J&J (P) Ltd, BCCL and its group publications disclaim any liability for the accuracy or consequences flowing from adherence to their expert views.This story is provided by Mediawire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/Mediawire)

Obesity and depression feed off each other: Study

In an analysis of women with early breast cancer, black women had higher rates of obesity and other health conditions that can affect survival, compared with white women. The findings are published early online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society (ACS). Obesity is a known risk factor for various cancers, and its rise over the past few decades has contributed to a rise in breast cancer rates that is greater in Black women than white women. 
 
At the same time, as breast cancer mortality rates have declined, the decline has been less pronounced in black women, producing a 40 per cent mortality gap.To investigate further, Kirsten Nyrop, PhD, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and her colleagues analysed information concerning 548 patients treated at their hospital for early breast cancer. 
 
The team found that 62 per cent of black patients and 33 per cent of white patients fell within the obese weight range, and higher percentages of black women had obesity-related comorbidities, such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol than white women. 
 
Yet, despite significant differences in the prevalence of obesity and comorbidities, there were no differences between black and white patients in treatment decisions with regard to the type of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or endocrine therapy."Early breast cancer is highly treatable, and survival rates have improved steadily due to treatment advances and early detection through mammograms; however, the high rates of obesity, overall comorbidities, and obesity-related comorbidities observed among women with early breast cancer--especially among black women--can contribute to disparities in overall survival of these patients," said Dr Nyrop. 
 
"Findings from this study need to be considered within the larger context of the cancer-obesity link and the disparate impact of the obesity epidemic on communities of colour in the United States," added Dr Nyrop. Dr Nyrop noted that rates of many cancers that are impacted by obesity are higher in Black women as are rates of numerous obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and hypertension."As the COVID-19 pandemic has glaringly underscored, there is an urgent need to address the systemic and socioeconomic aspects of obesity that disproportionately affect minority communities in the US if we are to reverse health disparities," added Dr Nyrop. 
 
An accompanying editorial stresses that clinicians should "take advantage of the breast cancer diagnosis as an opportunity for interventions that can be far-reaching."The authors note that several lifestyle interventions can not only address obesity but also potentially prolong survival in patients with cancer.&nbsp;

In an analysis of women with early breast cancer, black women had higher rates of obesity and other health conditions that can affect survival, compared with white women.

In an analysis of women with early breast cancer, black women had higher rates of obesity and other health conditions that can affect survival, compared with white women. The findings are published early online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society (ACS). Obesity is a known risk factor for various cancers, and its rise over the past few decades has contributed to a rise in breast cancer rates that is greater in Black women than white women. At the same time, as breast cancer mortality rates have declined, the decline has been less pronounced in black women, producing a 40 per cent mortality gap.To investigate further, Kirsten Nyrop, PhD, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and her colleagues analysed information concerning 548 patients treated at their hospital for early breast cancer. The team found that 62 per cent of black patients and 33 per cent of white patients fell within the obese weight range, and higher percentages of black women had obesity-related comorbidities, such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol than white women. Yet, despite significant differences in the prevalence of obesity and comorbidities, there were no differences between black and white patients in treatment decisions with regard to the type of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or endocrine therapy."Early breast cancer is highly treatable, and survival rates have improved steadily due to treatment advances and early detection through mammograms; however, the high rates of obesity, overall comorbidities, and obesity-related comorbidities observed among women with early breast cancer--especially among black women--can contribute to disparities in overall survival of these patients," said Dr Nyrop. "Findings from this study need to be considered within the larger context of the cancer-obesity link and the disparate impact of the obesity epidemic on communities of colour in the United States," added Dr Nyrop. Dr Nyrop noted that rates of many cancers that are impacted by obesity are higher in Black women as are rates of numerous obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and hypertension."As the COVID-19 pandemic has glaringly underscored, there is an urgent need to address the systemic and socioeconomic aspects of obesity that disproportionately affect minority communities in the US if we are to reverse health disparities," added Dr Nyrop. An accompanying editorial stresses that clinicians should "take advantage of the breast cancer diagnosis as an opportunity for interventions that can be far-reaching."The authors note that several lifestyle interventions can not only address obesity but also potentially prolong survival in patients with cancer.

Obesity contributes to mortality gap between black and white women with early breast cancer

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows that obese women have an increased risk of hip fracture earlier than others, well before the age of 70.The study followed 12,715 women for a period of 25 years. The new findings from the Osteoporosis Risk Factor and Prevention (OSTPRE) study were published in Osteoporosis International. 
 
Launched at the University of Eastern Finland in 1989, the OSTPRE study is a population-based cohort study that recruited all women born in Kuopio Province, Eastern Finland, between 1932 and 1941.In the 25-year follow-up, the researchers analysed the association of body mass index (BMI) at the age of 58 with the risk of early hip fracture up until the age of 70. 
 
They also analysed the association of body mass index at the age of 70 with the risk of hip fracture later in life, up until the age of 83. The risk of hip fracture was examined in groups of normal-weight, overweight and obese women. Data on hip fractures, mechanisms of injury, and mortality were obtained from national health registers. 
 
Normal weight was defined as a BMI of 25 or less, overweight as a BMI of 25-29.9, and obesity as a BMI of 30 or over (kg/m2). At baseline, 39.6 per cent of the women were normal-weight, 40 per cent were overweight, and 19.9 per cent were obese. 
 
A small fraction of the women (n=59, 0.5 per cent ) had a BMI below the normal range, that is, less than 18.5 kg/m2. Ageing was associated with some increase in the BMI: at 70 years of age, 33.4 per cent of the women were normal-weight, 40.9 per cent were overweight and 25.7 per cent were obese. 
 
As expected, the risk of hip fracture increased with age in all of the groups; however, the risk of early hip fracture increased faster in obese women, and slower in overweight women, than in others. In obese women, the probability of hip fracture was at 1 per cent already at the age of 66.7, while in overweight women the 1 per cent probability was reached 5.1 years later, at the age of 71. 
 
Obese women had a 2 per cent probability of hip fracture 2.1 years earlier than overweight women, and a 4 per cent probability 1.3 years earlier. The differences between the groups became smaller with ageing. In obese women, hip fracture-related mortality in five years after the incident was approximately 1.5 times higher than in others. 
 
After around 75 years of age, the risk of hip fracture increased fastest in slender women whose BMI was at the lower end of normal weight. Women at the borderline between normal weight and overweight had the smallest risk all the way until old age. 
 
The study also included a DXA bone density measurement of the hip and a related follow-up of a sub-sample of 3,136 women. At baseline, obese women had on average the highest bone density, but their bone loss was significantly faster than in others. Indeed, obese women in the lowest bone density tertile at baseline had a particularly high risk of hip fracture. 
 
Some earlier studies have suggested that obesity could also be a factor that protects against hip fracture. However, the contradictory findings on the association of BMI with hip fracture seem to be dependent on which age group is being studied. Typically, follow-up times have been significantly shorter than those in the OSTPRE study."Based on this study, the risk of early hip fracture occurring before the age of 70 is clearly highest in obese women - and especially in obese women who have a below-average bone density. Later, after around 75 years of age, the risk increases fastest in slender women. 
 
Ageing women at the borderline between normal weight and overweight seem to have the lowest risk," Senior Researcher Toni Rikkonen from the University of Eastern Finland said.&nbsp;

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows that obese women have an increased risk of hip fracture earlier than others, well before the age of 70.The study followed 12,715 women for a period of 25 years.

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows that obese women have an increased risk of hip fracture earlier than others, well before the age of 70.The study followed 12,715 women for a period of 25 years. The new findings from the Osteoporosis Risk Factor and Prevention (OSTPRE) study were published in Osteoporosis International. Launched at the University of Eastern Finland in 1989, the OSTPRE study is a population-based cohort study that recruited all women born in Kuopio Province, Eastern Finland, between 1932 and 1941.In the 25-year follow-up, the researchers analysed the association of body mass index (BMI) at the age of 58 with the risk of early hip fracture up until the age of 70. They also analysed the association of body mass index at the age of 70 with the risk of hip fracture later in life, up until the age of 83. The risk of hip fracture was examined in groups of normal-weight, overweight and obese women. Data on hip fractures, mechanisms of injury, and mortality were obtained from national health registers. Normal weight was defined as a BMI of 25 or less, overweight as a BMI of 25-29.9, and obesity as a BMI of 30 or over (kg/m2). At baseline, 39.6 per cent of the women were normal-weight, 40 per cent were overweight, and 19.9 per cent were obese. A small fraction of the women (n=59, 0.5 per cent ) had a BMI below the normal range, that is, less than 18.5 kg/m2. Ageing was associated with some increase in the BMI: at 70 years of age, 33.4 per cent of the women were normal-weight, 40.9 per cent were overweight and 25.7 per cent were obese. As expected, the risk of hip fracture increased with age in all of the groups; however, the risk of early hip fracture increased faster in obese women, and slower in overweight women, than in others. In obese women, the probability of hip fracture was at 1 per cent already at the age of 66.7, while in overweight women the 1 per cent probability was reached 5.1 years later, at the age of 71. Obese women had a 2 per cent probability of hip fracture 2.1 years earlier than overweight women, and a 4 per cent probability 1.3 years earlier. The differences between the groups became smaller with ageing. In obese women, hip fracture-related mortality in five years after the incident was approximately 1.5 times higher than in others. After around 75 years of age, the risk of hip fracture increased fastest in slender women whose BMI was at the lower end of normal weight. Women at the borderline between normal weight and overweight had the smallest risk all the way until old age. The study also included a DXA bone density measurement of the hip and a related follow-up of a sub-sample of 3,136 women. At baseline, obese women had on average the highest bone density, but their bone loss was significantly faster than in others. Indeed, obese women in the lowest bone density tertile at baseline had a particularly high risk of hip fracture. Some earlier studies have suggested that obesity could also be a factor that protects against hip fracture. However, the contradictory findings on the association of BMI with hip fracture seem to be dependent on which age group is being studied. Typically, follow-up times have been significantly shorter than those in the OSTPRE study."Based on this study, the risk of early hip fracture occurring before the age of 70 is clearly highest in obese women - and especially in obese women who have a below-average bone density. Later, after around 75 years of age, the risk increases fastest in slender women. Ageing women at the borderline between normal weight and overweight seem to have the lowest risk," Senior Researcher Toni Rikkonen from the University of Eastern Finland said.

Obesity increases risk of early hip fracture in postmenopausal women: Study

A hormone that can suppress food intake and increase the feeling of fullness in mice has shown similar results in humans and non-human primates, says a new study&nbsp;published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/11/201124122921.htm">eLife</a>.

The hormone, called Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), could be used as a potential treatment in people with obesity whose natural signals for feeling full no longer work.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-set-to-ban-online-advertisements-of-junk-food-to-fight-obesity-342241">Britain set to ban online advertisements of junk food to fight obesity</a>

LCN2 is mainly produced by bone cells and is found naturally in mice and humans. Studies in mice have shown that giving LCN2 to the animals long term reduces their food intake and prevents weight gain, without leading to a slow-down in their metabolism.

"LCN2 acts as a signal for satiety after a meal, leading mice to limit their food intake, and it does this by acting on the hypothalamus within the brain," explains lead author Peristera-Ioanna Petropoulou, who was a Postdoctoral Research Scientist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, US, at the time the study was carried out and is now at the Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, Munich, Germany.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/obesity-is-a-major-covid-19-risk-factor-says-epidemiologist-291788">Obesity is a major COVID-19 risk factor, says epidemiologist</a>

"We wanted to see whether LCN2 has similar effects in humans and whether a dose of it would be able to cross the blood-brain barrier."

The team first analysed data from four different studies of people in the US and Europe who were either normal weight, overweight or living with obesity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-scores-f-for-failure-as-unicef-report-on-obesity-youth-suicide-reveal-dismal-results-325176">New Zealand scores 'F for failure' as Unicef report on obesity, youth suicide reveal dismal results</a>

The people in each study were given a meal after an overnight fast, and the amount of LCN2 in their blood before and after the meal was studied.

The researchers found that in those who were of normal weight, there was an increase in LCN2 levels after the meal, which coincided with how satisfied they felt after eating.By contrast, in people who were overweight or had obesity, LCN2 levels decreased after a meal.

Based on this post-meal response, the researchers grouped people as non-responders or responders. Non-responders, who showed no increase in LCN2 after a meal, tended to have a larger waist circumference and higher markers of metabolic disease -- including BMI, body fat, increased blood pressure and increased blood glucose.

Remarkably, however, people who had lost weight after gastric bypass surgery were found to have a restored sensitivity to LCN2 -- changing their status from non-responders before their surgery, to responders afterwards.

Taken together, these results mirror those seen in mice and suggest that this loss of post-meal LCN2 regulation is a new mechanism contributing to obesity and could be a potential target for weight-loss treatments.

After verifying that LCN2 can cross into the brain, the team explored whether treatment with the hormone might reduce food intake and prevent weight gain. To do this, they treated monkeys with LCN2 for a week.

Scientists observed&nbsp;a 28 per cent&nbsp;decrease in food intake compared with that before treatment within a week, and the monkeys also ate 21 per cent&nbsp;less than their counterparts who were treated only with saline.

Moreover, after only one week of treatment, measurements of body weight, body fat and blood fat levels showed a declining trend in treated animals."

We have shown that LCN2 crosses to the brain, makes its way to the hypothalamus and suppresses food intake in non-human primates," concludes senior author Stavroula Kousteni, Professor of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

"Our results show that the hormone can curb appetite with negligible toxicity and lay the groundwork for the next level of LCN2 testing for clinical use."

A hormone that can suppress food intake and increase the feeling of fullness in mice has shown similar results in humans and non-human primates, says a new study published in the journal eLife.

A hormone that can suppress food intake and increase the feeling of fullness in mice has shown similar results in humans and non-human primates, says a new study published in the journal eLife. The hormone, called Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), could be used as a potential treatment in people with obesity whose natural signals for feeling full no longer work. Also read: Britain set to ban online advertisements of junk food to fight obesity LCN2 is mainly produced by bone cells and is found naturally in mice and humans. Studies in mice have shown that giving LCN2 to the animals long term reduces their food intake and prevents weight gain, without leading to a slow-down in their metabolism. "LCN2 acts as a signal for satiety after a meal, leading mice to limit their food intake, and it does this by acting on the hypothalamus within the brain," explains lead author Peristera-Ioanna Petropoulou, who was a Postdoctoral Research Scientist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, US, at the time the study was carried out and is now at the Helmholtz Diabetes Center, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, Munich, Germany. Also read: Obesity is a major COVID-19 risk factor, says epidemiologist "We wanted to see whether LCN2 has similar effects in humans and whether a dose of it would be able to cross the blood-brain barrier." The team first analysed data from four different studies of people in the US and Europe who were either normal weight, overweight or living with obesity. Also read: New Zealand scores 'F for failure' as Unicef report on obesity, youth suicide reveal dismal results The people in each study were given a meal after an overnight fast, and the amount of LCN2 in their blood before and after the meal was studied. The researchers found that in those who were of normal weight, there was an increase in LCN2 levels after the meal, which coincided with how satisfied they felt after eating.By contrast, in people who were overweight or had obesity, LCN2 levels decreased after a meal. Based on this post-meal response, the researchers grouped people as non-responders or responders. Non-responders, who showed no increase in LCN2 after a meal, tended to have a larger waist circumference and higher markers of metabolic disease -- including BMI, body fat, increased blood pressure and increased blood glucose. Remarkably, however, people who had lost weight after gastric bypass surgery were found to have a restored sensitivity to LCN2 -- changing their status from non-responders before their surgery, to responders afterwards. Taken together, these results mirror those seen in mice and suggest that this loss of post-meal LCN2 regulation is a new mechanism contributing to obesity and could be a potential target for weight-loss treatments. After verifying that LCN2 can cross into the brain, the team explored whether treatment with the hormone might reduce food intake and prevent weight gain. To do this, they treated monkeys with LCN2 for a week. Scientists observed a 28 per cent decrease in food intake compared with that before treatment within a week, and the monkeys also ate 21 per cent less than their counterparts who were treated only with saline. Moreover, after only one week of treatment, measurements of body weight, body fat and blood fat levels showed a declining trend in treated animals." We have shown that LCN2 crosses to the brain, makes its way to the hypothalamus and suppresses food intake in non-human primates," concludes senior author Stavroula Kousteni, Professor of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. "Our results show that the hormone can curb appetite with negligible toxicity and lay the groundwork for the next level of LCN2 testing for clinical use."

Switch off hunger? Scientists discover hormone that could tackle obesity

Britain is thinking of banning advertisements of junk food online. On Tuesday, the country proposed a ban in a bid&nbsp;to fight obesity and to improve public health.

The government added that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made public health more urgent than ever before.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/mcdonalds-announces-its-making-plant-based-meat-for-mcplant-menu-342037" hreflang="en">McDonald's announces it's making plant-based 'meat' for 'McPlant' menu</a>

Additionally, the government claimed that obesity continues to be Britain’s biggest long-term public health issue. As per government figures, at least two-thirds of adults in England are overweight, and one in three children passing out of primary school are obese.

If implemented, the ban would restrict online advertisements of foods that have high content of fat, sugar, and salt.

"We know as children spend more time online, parents want to be reassured they are not being exposed to adverts promoting unhealthy foods, which can affect eating habits for life," Matt Hancock, health minister said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/kfc-will-start-testing-its-environment-friendly-3d-printed-chicken-in-russia-by-end-of-2020-314872" hreflang="en">KFC will start testing its environment friendly 3D-printed chicken in Russia by end of 2020</a>

Besides its previously known health risks, COVID-19 has shown how obesity can cause deaths in people who contract coronavirus, along with serious illnesses.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has used his personal experience with COVID-19 to suggest that he needs to lose weight.

This would mean a complete ban online for unhealthy foods, in addition of the government’s plans to ban advertisements of unhealthy foods before 9 PM on television.

Britain is thinking of banning advertisements of junk food online. On Tuesday, the country proposed a ban in a bid to fight obesity and to improve public health.

Britain is thinking of banning advertisements of junk food online. On Tuesday, the country proposed a ban in a bid to fight obesity and to improve public health. The government added that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made public health more urgent than ever before. Also read: McDonald's announces it's making plant-based 'meat' for 'McPlant' menu Additionally, the government claimed that obesity continues to be Britain’s biggest long-term public health issue. As per government figures, at least two-thirds of adults in England are overweight, and one in three children passing out of primary school are obese. If implemented, the ban would restrict online advertisements of foods that have high content of fat, sugar, and salt. "We know as children spend more time online, parents want to be reassured they are not being exposed to adverts promoting unhealthy foods, which can affect eating habits for life," Matt Hancock, health minister said in a statement. Also read: KFC will start testing its environment friendly 3D-printed chicken in Russia by end of 2020 Besides its previously known health risks, COVID-19 has shown how obesity can cause deaths in people who contract coronavirus, along with serious illnesses. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has used his personal experience with COVID-19 to suggest that he needs to lose weight. This would mean a complete ban online for unhealthy foods, in addition of the government’s plans to ban advertisements of unhealthy foods before 9 PM on television.

Britain set to ban online advertisements of junk food to fight obesity

According to a new study, obesity raises death risk among male COVID-19 patients. The study has been conducted on thousands of patients. CDC, Public Health England has described obesity as a major risk factor.

Coronavirus Pandemic: New study identifies obesity as independent risk

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson starts his day by going for a run.&nbsp;

Johnson doesn't go alone and his dog, Dilyn, gives him company.&nbsp;

This is a lifestyle change that Johnson felt he had to make when he was battling COVID-19 at an intensive care unit.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-boris-johnsons-new-obesity-strategy-316371/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The British prime minister realised that obesity can turn deadly and now he wants that the Kingdom also realises the same.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnson-shares-his-struggle-with-weight-urging-citizens-to-get-fit-316214">British PM Boris Johnson shares his struggle with weight urging citizens to get fit</a>

Johnson is asking Britons to shed some pounds before the second wave of infections strikes in September.&nbsp;

The British government has also launched a campaign to tackle the obesity crisis and is all set to pump 10 million pounds (1,28,78,600 USD).

Critics say the government is acting like a nanny, but the British PM says this intervention is crucial. &nbsp;

"What we're doing now with our better health strategies, just trying to help people a little bit to bring their weight down, not an excessively bossy or nannying way, I hope," he said.&nbsp;

Since the outbreak first emerged, experts are saying that fitness is your best bet to beat the virus.&nbsp;

A study shows that obese patients have a 33 per cent higher chance of dying due to the virus. As many as 73 per cent of the people in the ICU in the UK are overweight or obese patients. A public health survey found that obesity increases the risks of hospitalisation and being obese puts a strain on hearts and lungs, making recovery much more difficult.&nbsp;

In the UK, two out three adults are overweight or obese.&nbsp;

The government is aiming to change this by banning junk food advertisements on televisions before 9 PM. Also, measures such as buy one, get one free on junk food deals, displaying calories on the menus given by restaurants will be adopted by the government.&nbsp;

Britain needs these measures than any other European country.&nbsp;

"When you look at the numbers, when you look at the numbers in the NHS, compare, I am afraid this wonderful country of ours to say other European countries, we are significantly fatter," Johson said.&nbsp;

Britain is the most obese in Europe with obesity twice as high in poorest areas.&nbsp;

Across Europe, obesity can become a major issue in tackling the virus outbreak.&nbsp;

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), 30 to 70 per cent of European adults are overweight.&nbsp;

The situation is no better across the Atlantic.&nbsp;

With over 4 million cases, the US is the worst-hit COVID-19 country by a broad margin and the nation also has the highest number of obese among the rich nations.&nbsp;

Nearly 40 per cent of American adults are obese.&nbsp;

As several countries are moving away from the lockdown, people shall go back to their binging session too.&nbsp;

In the UK, Johnson has taken the first step. Only time will tell if Britons join him for the run.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson starts his day by going for a run. Johnson doesn't go alone and his dog, Dilyn, gives him company. This is a lifestyle change that Johnson felt he had to make when he was battling COVID-19 at an intensive care unit.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson starts his day by going for a run. Johnson doesn't go alone and his dog, Dilyn, gives him company. This is a lifestyle change that Johnson felt he had to make when he was battling COVID-19 at an intensive care unit. Watch | The British prime minister realised that obesity can turn deadly and now he wants that the Kingdom also realises the same. Also read | British PM Boris Johnson shares his struggle with weight urging citizens to get fit Johnson is asking Britons to shed some pounds before the second wave of infections strikes in September. The British government has also launched a campaign to tackle the obesity crisis and is all set to pump 10 million pounds (1,28,78,600 USD). Critics say the government is acting like a nanny, but the British PM says this intervention is crucial. "What we're doing now with our better health strategies, just trying to help people a little bit to bring their weight down, not an excessively bossy or nannying way, I hope," he said. Since the outbreak first emerged, experts are saying that fitness is your best bet to beat the virus. A study shows that obese patients have a 33 per cent higher chance of dying due to the virus. As many as 73 per cent of the people in the ICU in the UK are overweight or obese patients. A public health survey found that obesity increases the risks of hospitalisation and being obese puts a strain on hearts and lungs, making recovery much more difficult. In the UK, two out three adults are overweight or obese. The government is aiming to change this by banning junk food advertisements on televisions before 9 PM. Also, measures such as buy one, get one free on junk food deals, displaying calories on the menus given by restaurants will be adopted by the government. Britain needs these measures than any other European country. "When you look at the numbers, when you look at the numbers in the NHS, compare, I am afraid this wonderful country of ours to say other European countries, we are significantly fatter," Johson said. Britain is the most obese in Europe with obesity twice as high in poorest areas. Across Europe, obesity can become a major issue in tackling the virus outbreak. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), 30 to 70 per cent of European adults are overweight. The situation is no better across the Atlantic. With over 4 million cases, the US is the worst-hit COVID-19 country by a broad margin and the nation also has the highest number of obese among the rich nations. Nearly 40 per cent of American adults are obese. As several countries are moving away from the lockdown, people shall go back to their binging session too. In the UK, Johnson has taken the first step. Only time will tell if Britons join him for the run.

Make Britain great or fit! Why UK and world need to take obesity seriously?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged Britishers to lose "a little bit of weight" on Monday and used his own struggle with his weight before he was infected with the coronavirus.&nbsp;

The British government unveiled a "Better Health" campaign on Monday. The campaign is launched to tackle 'obesity time bomb' and have banned advertisements for junk food before 9:00 PM. They have also ended "buy one get one free" deals and putting calories on menus.

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Losing weight is hard but with some small changes we can all feel fitter and healthier. 
 
If we all do our bit, we can reduce our health risks and protect ourselves against coronavirus – as well as taking pressure off the NHS. 
 
Our Better Health Strategy <a href="https://t.co/WdazXhuhRN">https://t.co/WdazXhuhRN</a> <a href="https://t.co/KZhW8p17FJ">pic.twitter.com/KZhW8p17FJ</a>
— Boris Johnson #StayAlert (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1287649130655997959?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I've always wanted to lose weight for ages and ages and like many people I struggle with my weight, I go up and down. But since I recovered from coronavirus I have been steadily building up my fitness," he said in a video clip on Twitter.

"I'm at least a stone down, I'm more than a stone down but when I went into ICU (intensive care) when I was really ill, I was way over weight ... and, you know, I was too fat," he said, adding that he hoped the new campaign was not "excessively bossy or nannying".

Earlier, the United Kingdom announced its plan to impose a compulsory 14-day quarantine for travellers entering the country from Spain.

The move was announced on Saturday noon and was implemented from midnight (2300 GMT on Saturday), which created an atmosphere of chaos for travellers en route the UK.

This decision of sudden implementation was not well-received by the travellers. However, the UK government has made it clear that the decision will stay and without any apologies.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged Britishers to lose "a little bit of weight" on Monday and used his own struggle with his weight before he was infected with the coronavirus.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged Britishers to lose "a little bit of weight" on Monday and used his own struggle with his weight before he was infected with the coronavirus. The British government unveiled a "Better Health" campaign on Monday. The campaign is launched to tackle 'obesity time bomb' and have banned advertisements for junk food before 9:00 PM. They have also ended "buy one get one free" deals and putting calories on menus. Losing weight is hard but with some small changes we can all feel fitter and healthier. If we all do our bit, we can reduce our health risks and protect ourselves against coronavirus – as well as taking pressure off the NHS. Our Better Health Strategy https://t.co/WdazXhuhRN pic.twitter.com/KZhW8p17FJ — Boris Johnson #StayAlert (@BorisJohnson) July 27, 2020 × "I've always wanted to lose weight for ages and ages and like many people I struggle with my weight, I go up and down. But since I recovered from coronavirus I have been steadily building up my fitness," he said in a video clip on Twitter. "I'm at least a stone down, I'm more than a stone down but when I went into ICU (intensive care) when I was really ill, I was way over weight ... and, you know, I was too fat," he said, adding that he hoped the new campaign was not "excessively bossy or nannying". Earlier, the United Kingdom announced its plan to impose a compulsory 14-day quarantine for travellers entering the country from Spain. The move was announced on Saturday noon and was implemented from midnight (2300 GMT on Saturday), which created an atmosphere of chaos for travellers en route the UK. This decision of sudden implementation was not well-received by the travellers. However, the UK government has made it clear that the decision will stay and without any apologies.

British PM Boris Johnson shares his struggle with weight urging citizens to get fit

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

Johnson, who said at the start of the year that he needed to lose weight, was hospitalised in April with coronavirus and treated in intensive care with oxygen. He later said doctors in the National Health Service (NHS) had saved his life.

Asked about how ill he had been in an interview with Times Radio, Johnson said: "I did lose some weight - that is perfectly true - as you do in ICU (Intensive Care Unit)." 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netizens-lash-out-at-british-pm-boris-johnson-after-his-press-ups-309417" hreflang="en">Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups'</a>

"I have taken a very libertarian stance on obesity but actually when you look at the numbers, when you look at the pressure on the NHS, compare, I'm afraid this wonderful country of ours to other European countries, we are significantly fatter than most others, apart from the Maltese for some reason. It is an issue."

The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world: nearly one in three adults are obese, according to the OECD. Worldwide, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and more than 650 million people are obese - defined by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater.

"HUGELY COSTLY"

Johnson, who in his youth was slender, has ditched takeaways since his illness and even told meetings that “it’s all right for you thinnies” when discussing the novel coronavirus, British media reported.

"I am not going to pretend I have original thinking about this nor am I going to pretend that it is easy for politicians to solve - everybody knows that this is a tough one," Johnson said. "It's something we all need to address."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-pm-to-unveil-new-infrastructure-plan-to-revive-economy-in-face-of-pandemic-309188" hreflang="en">Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic</a>

Asked if he was now an interventionist who would support a sugar tax, Johnson did not give a direct answer.

"We certainly must have a care for the health of our population and we will be happier and fitter and more resistant to diseases like COVID if we can tackle obesity," Johnson said. "It is hugely costly for the NHS."

Johnson did some press ups to show he was "as fit as a butcher's dog" in an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

Asked if he did the press ups because there was a narrative that he was not fit, he said: "Well I certainly hope not. Well no, yes."

"When I came out of hospital I did notice there were occasional pieces in the papers saying I was looking a bit wraithlike, or something someone said," Johnson said. "Complete nonsense I want you to know."

"I am feeling very well, yes thank you, again thanks to our National Health Service," he said.

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

The British are far fatter than any other nation in Europe bar the Maltese so there needs to be a debate about how to tackle soaring rates of obesity which cost the country dearly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday. Johnson, who said at the start of the year that he needed to lose weight, was hospitalised in April with coronavirus and treated in intensive care with oxygen. He later said doctors in the National Health Service (NHS) had saved his life. Asked about how ill he had been in an interview with Times Radio, Johnson said: "I did lose some weight - that is perfectly true - as you do in ICU (Intensive Care Unit)." Also read: Netizens lash out at British PM Boris Johnson after his 'press ups' "I have taken a very libertarian stance on obesity but actually when you look at the numbers, when you look at the pressure on the NHS, compare, I'm afraid this wonderful country of ours to other European countries, we are significantly fatter than most others, apart from the Maltese for some reason. It is an issue." The United Kingdom has one of the highest rates of obesity in the world: nearly one in three adults are obese, according to the OECD. Worldwide, obesity has nearly tripled since 1975 and more than 650 million people are obese - defined by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index of 30 or greater. "HUGELY COSTLY" Johnson, who in his youth was slender, has ditched takeaways since his illness and even told meetings that “it’s all right for you thinnies” when discussing the novel coronavirus, British media reported. "I am not going to pretend I have original thinking about this nor am I going to pretend that it is easy for politicians to solve - everybody knows that this is a tough one," Johnson said. "It's something we all need to address." Also read: Britain PM to unveil new infrastructure plan to revive economy in face of pandemic Asked if he was now an interventionist who would support a sugar tax, Johnson did not give a direct answer. "We certainly must have a care for the health of our population and we will be happier and fitter and more resistant to diseases like COVID if we can tackle obesity," Johnson said. "It is hugely costly for the NHS." Johnson did some press ups to show he was "as fit as a butcher's dog" in an interview with the Mail on Sunday newspaper. Asked if he did the press ups because there was a narrative that he was not fit, he said: "Well I certainly hope not. Well no, yes." "When I came out of hospital I did notice there were occasional pieces in the papers saying I was looking a bit wraithlike, or something someone said," Johnson said. "Complete nonsense I want you to know." "I am feeling very well, yes thank you, again thanks to our National Health Service," he said.

The British are fatter than the rest of Europe, says PM Johnson

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