Is the term ‘obese’ outdated? New global report says yes!

With the huge success of the once-weekly injectable weight-loss treatments such as Ozempic® and Wegovy® over recent years to help combat the global ‘obesity’ epidemic; medical professionals have called for a new definition of the term ‘obese’.

Despite individuals with higher levels of adipose tissue having more health issues, being ‘obese’ is not a disease in its own entirety; just a precursor to other health issues. The idea of obesity as a disease remains highly controversial amongst medical professionals.   

As of such, published on the 14th January 2025, the Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology published its commission on the definition and diagnostic criteria of clinical obesity; with the hope that it will improve patient care and clinical outcomes.

Obesity has been split into two criteria:

·      Clinical Obesity – a systematic disease state with direct relation to having excess adiposity (excess fat tissue), such as hypertension (high blood pressure), type two diabetes or heart disease.

·      Pre-clinical Obesity – excess adiposity (fat tissue) without current disease states and organ dysfunction, but with an increased future health risk.

It is important to remember that not every individual who is ‘obese’ has associated disease and it is completely possible for obese individuals to live active and healthy lives without any associated medical conditions (pre-clinical obesity). This observation amplifies the importance of correct clinician diagnosis, which should improve the allocation of medications, healthcare practitioners and treatment of clinical obesity for those in most need. Whilst those with pre-clinical obesity, risk-mitigation is a key priority; such as lifestyle changes.