Complex Obesity & Metabolic Disorders

Can hormones cause obesity?

Some endocrine disorders can contribute to weight gain, but most obesity is multifactorial and is not caused by a single hormone problem.

When should an endocrine cause of obesity be considered?

Particularly when weight gain is accompanied by:

• Poor height gain in a child
• Cushingoid physical features
• Severe hypothyroidism
• Hypogonadism
• Other endocrine abnormalities
• Very early-onset severe obesity
• Features suggesting a genetic disorder

What is metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome refers to a cluster of metabolic risk factors including abdominal obesity, abnormal glucose regulation, elevated blood pressure and abnormal lipid levels.

Can metabolic syndrome be improved?

Yes. Weight management, physical activity, nutrition and appropriate treatment of individual risk factors can substantially improve metabolic health.