April 17, 2025

A new study recently published in NEJM Evidence and shared by MedPage Today has brought an important public health concern into sharper focus: the growing impact of obesity on long-term health.

The findings are part of a large-scale, ongoing research effort that tracked individuals over time to better understand how increased body weight contributes to chronic disease.

The results are both eye-opening and motivating. Researchers found that obesity is strongly associated with 16 major health conditions, many of which are chronic, progressive, and life-altering.

The study also confirmed that the risk for these conditions increases along with a person’s Body Mass Index (BMI)—meaning the more excess weight carried, the greater the chances of developing serious health issues.

 

The 16 Health Conditions Tied to Obesity Include:

Obesity doesn’t affect just one system of the body—it puts stress on nearly every organ.

According to the study, the following conditions were significantly more common in people with higher BMIs:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Chronic pain and obesity related joint pain
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)
  • Gout
  • Heart failure
  • Hypertension
  • Biliary calculus (gallstones)
  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Pulmonary embolism (PE)
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Hyperlipidemia/dyslipidemia
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Asthma
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

Among all these, Hypertension stood out as the most frequently diagnosed condition, affecting over 35% of study participants.

 

Risk Increases With BMI

One of the most important findings in the report is that you don’t have to be classified as “obese” to be at risk.

Even individuals classified as overweight (BMI 25–29.9) showed an elevated risk for nearly many of the above conditions, with the exception of pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

This includes a higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and cardiovascular complications—even without entering the obesity range.

According to the study, the magnitude of risk increases with higher obesity class—with the highest risk among individuals with a BMI of 40 or more.

 

What Does This Mean for Your Health?

If you’re living with obesity or are overweight, this study is a powerful reminder of the wide-ranging effects excess weight can have on your health.

Conditions like asthma, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and heart disease can often be prevented or significantly improved through clinically supervised weight loss programs.

Weight loss isn’t just about how you look—it’s about reducing the burden on your body so it can function more efficiently and protect itself from long-term disease.

 

How Dr. Robert Fortino helps Patients reach their Health Goals

At his Philadelphia and New Jersey weight loss clinics, Dr. Fortino and his well-trained staff provide patients with a science-driven, medically supervised approach to weight loss service.

The focus isn’t just on shedding pounds—it’s on helping you restore energy, improve internal health, and reduce your risk of chronic disease.

His treatment plans are tailored to individual needs and may include advanced options like:

 
GLP-1 Medications

Medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide have helped many patients regulate appetite, control blood sugar, and lose weight gradually.

Tirzepatide and Semaglutide weight loss treatment options are especially helpful for patients struggling with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.

 
The Skinny Shot

For those who need a metabolic boost, The Skinny Shot (a lipotropic injection containing B12 and amino acids) can enhance fat-burning, increase energy, and curb cravings.

 
Vitamin & Amino Acid Boosters

Nutritional support is essential. B12 and other amino acid injections can improve energy, metabolism, and immunity while supporting your weight loss journey.

 
Testosterone Therapy for Men

For men with hormone imbalances, Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can improve muscle tone, energy levels, and metabolic function—helping to support weight loss from a hormonal angle.

All programs are medically supervised and designed to help you lose weight safely, gradually, and sustainably.

Through cutting-edge therapies, compassionate care, and a commitment to long-term success.

Dr. Fortino and his well-trained staff help patients safely reduce weight, lower their risk of chronic disease, and reclaim their energy, health, and confidence.

 
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

If this study sounds overwhelming, remember that taking control of your health is a journey—and you don’t have to go it alone.

Whether your goal is to lose 10 pounds or 100 pounds, medically guided care makes the process safer, more efficient, and more personalized.

At Dr. Fortino’s clinic, your success isn’t measured by a number on the scale—it’s measured by how much better you feel, how much stronger your body becomes, and how much risk you’ve removed from your life.

 
Ready to Take the First Step?

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Robert Fortino today and begin your personalized weight loss journey.

Reduce your risk for chronic disease, reclaim your energy, and take control of your health—one step at a time.

📞 Philadelphia Office: 215.336.8000
📞 New Jersey Office: 856.318.4100